They’re running heavy equipment. My guess, if they’re using propane, is that the area that they’re in lacks sufficient grid connectivity to pull in enough power to run it, or it’d be probably cheaper than using propane and I’d expect them to be using grid power.

If you go back to the older US, before the electricity grid was widespread, it was common for factories to do local energy production, running boilers and stuff.

EDIT: It sounds like the city is planning a major grid infrastructure buildout.

theblunttimes.in/…/46946/

Surat, Gujarat – In a decisive move to address the growing electricity needs of the diamond city of Surat, a high-level meeting was held at the Circuit House under the chairmanship of Gujarat’s Finance and Energy Minister and Surat District In-charge Minister, Kanubhai Desai. The discussion centered around long-term planning for electricity supply, as the city’s population and industrial expansion show no signs of slowing down.

“Surat is among the fastest developing cities in India,” said Minister Desai during the meeting. “As new industries and urban zones continue to emerge, we must proactively prepare to meet the future power demand. Ensuring uninterrupted and quality electricity is essential not just for households, but also for industry and infrastructure.”

According to P.N. Patel, Superintendent Engineer of GETCO, Navsari, the current electricity consumption in Gujarat is around 25,000 MW, with Surat city alone accounting for 3,200 MW. Forecasts suggest this demand will rise sharply to 5,200 MW in the next five years. To accommodate this surge by 2030, a total of 82 new sub-stations will be required — 26 within the Surat Municipal Corporation limits, 24 in SUDA areas, and 32 in the revenue regions of Palsana, Choryasi, and Olpad.

“This is not just planning for tomorrow — it’s planning for the next decade,” Patel added. “Our estimates are grounded in the rapid pace of urbanization and industrial growth seen in recent years. We must act swiftly to secure land and begin groundwork.”

With Surat’s transformation into a major economic hub, especially in textiles, diamonds, and real estate, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply will be pivotal in sustaining its momentum. The city’s success story is now closely tied to how effectively it addresses the challenge of rising energy demand.