Power loom industry struggles as 30% of looms shut down in India
- Abdul Sattar has worked for 70 years in power loom workshops despite poor conditions.
- Rising yarn prices and electricity costs have prompted many looms to close.
- The future of Bhiwandi's remaining power looms is uncertain, reflecting the industry's decline.
In Bhiwandi, India, a significant portion of the power loom industry is facing severe challenges. Abdul Sattar, a 70-year-old textile worker, describes the environment filled with electric-powered looms that operate under unhealthy noise levels. These workshops have historically provided steady jobs, but factors such as rising yarn costs and the increasing price of electricity have severely affected their competitiveness against cheaper imports from China. As a result, many looms have ceased operating, marking a notable downturn in an industry that was once the second largest employer after agriculture. This decline has had tangible effects on the local populace. Ishtaq Ahmad Ansari, a former owner of 110 looms, shares his experiences after having to close his business four years ago, forcing him to take on contracted work in another manufacturing facility. Anecdotes like Ansari’s highlight a widespread concern among loom owners regarding their business futures. Many are contemplating the use of loans to modernize their operations while grappling with the harsh economic realities. Although some loom operators are considering modernization to keep up with advancements, Abdul Sattar has expressed an intention to remain in the industry he has dedicated his life to, despite its declining state. He has been able to support his family throughout the years of work, stating that he desires a different path for his son, indicating a generational shift in the workforce. The emotional and financial toll of this trend crystallizes the difficult choices many families are now facing in Bhiwandi. In addition to the struggles faced by individual workers, the overarching narrative presents a significant insight into the local economy and its dependence on the textile industry. With around 300,000 power looms still operating in Bhiwandi, the future of this industry hangs in the balance amid competition from modern machinery and foreign imports. As the local landscape shifts, the preservation of this age-old craft presents questions regarding sustainability and technological adaptation in an era of rapid change.