LPG shortage leaves small eateries, NGOs on the edge

LPG shortages threaten small eateries and NGOs in Visakhapatnam, prompting concerns over disrupted operations and livelihoods.

Amid the ongoing tensions in East Asia, concerns over a possible disruption in LPG supply have begun to worry small-scale food kiosk owners, fast-food centres, street vendors and organisations working with the poor. Although the situation in the city remains largely under control for now, many who depend entirely on LPG for their day-to-day operations, have been gripped by anxiety. While a few small food outlets have already begun shutting down their operations, some are attempting to manage by resorting to traditional methods such as cooking with firewood.

Pragada Vasu, a member of the Association for Urban & Tribal Development (AUTD), who also monitors the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) night shelter at the TSR Complex, said that they are already running out of options.

“We use commercial cylinders, but our gas agency has temporarily halted the supply. We currently have only one cylinder left,” he said. The night shelter accommodates nearly 200 people, including destitute individuals, those who have run away from home, the elderly and some mentally challenged persons. Mr. Vasu shared that a commercial cylinder lasts only for about one-and-a-half to two days, as food is prepared three times a day and tea is served in the afternoon. The existing cylinder may last only until Thursday, he said, and added that they are making efforts to ensure the food supply continues uninterrupted.

Many small traders say that if the LPG supply disruption continues for long, it will directly impact their livelihoods since most of their businesses rely on daily earnings.

“We have been closely following the news and speaking with friends in Hyderabad and other places where the situation is reportedly worsening. I have already started planning for alternatives,” said P. Rama Rao, who runs a tiffin stall in MVP Colony. “If the situation worsens, I will stop preparing deep-fried items such as poori, vada and bonda, and will focus only on items like idly and dosa,” he said. He added that the tiffin stall is his only source of income.

In some areas of the city, including Beach Road, Jagadamba Junction and Old Gajuwaka, a few food stalls that depend on commercial cylinders have already stopped operations. Others are trying to continue by switching to firewood in order to earn a minimal income.