Jamshedpur Residents Turn to Traditional Fuels Amid Severe LPG Shortage
Hit by a critical shortage of LPG refills, people across Jamshedpur, known as the Steel City, have rapidly shifted back to conventional cooking methods using coal, kerosene, and firewood. This sudden surge in demand has triggered a sharp increase in the prices of these three essential energy commodities, placing additional financial strain on households already grappling with the inconvenience.
Urban and Suburban Households Adapt Swiftly to Age-Old Practices
Households, particularly those residing in the suburbs and slum areas, are swiftly readopting these age-old cooking techniques. Madan Sahu, a local puja material seller, highlighted a unique trend: “People are purchasing hawan lakadi bundles to light fires for cooking, as dedicated cooking firewood is scarce in the urban market.” This adaptation underscores the severity of the LPG crisis and the resourcefulness of residents in finding alternatives.
Vendors Report Unprecedented Spike in Demand for Coal and Cow Dung Cakes
Local vendors have observed a dramatic rise in demand for coal and cow dung cakes over the past five days. Amrit Singh, a coal seller, shared his experience: “I typically supply coal to pressers and some tea vendors, but for the last two to three days, I have been receiving regular calls from households seeking coal for domestic use.” This shift indicates a broadening of the customer base beyond commercial establishments to include ordinary families.
Price Hikes Reflect Intense Demand and Limited Supply
The increased demand, coupled with short supply, has led to significant price escalations:
- A 20 kg bag of coal, previously priced at Rs 400, now costs Rs 520.
- Firewood bundles, once sold for Rs 10 each, are now priced between Rs 15 and Rs 20.
- Hawan lakadi bundles are being sold from Rs 30 to Rs 70, depending on wood quality.
- Kerosene prices have risen from Rs 120 to Rs 130-140 per litre.
Residents Face Logistical Challenges in Sourcing Alternatives
Binod Mahato, a resident of Kadma, pointed out the logistical hurdles: “Petrol is now comparatively cheaper than kerosene, but kerosene is not readily available in all markets. One must travel to areas like Jugsalai, Burmamines, or Mango to purchase it.” Mahato has already bought an earthen stove and is actively searching for kerosene and firewood, illustrating the lengths to which people are going to secure cooking fuel.
Cow Dung Cakes See Renewed Interest Amid Crisis
Milkman Kailash Rai reported a steady stream of customers visiting his cattle shed to buy upla stacks. “Demand for cow dung cakes has increased noticeably,” he said, noting that he currently sells a stack of 50 pieces for Rs 100. This resurgence highlights how traditional, rural resources are being tapped into to address urban energy shortages.
The situation in Jamshedpur serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in modern energy supply chains and the enduring relevance of traditional fuels during crises. As residents navigate these challenges, the economic and social impacts of the LPG shortage continue to unfold across the Steel City.
