LPG Shortage Cripples Lucknow's Goldsmiths, Halting Jewelry Artisan Work
The ongoing LPG shortage in Lucknow has begun to severely impact small goldsmiths and jewelry artisans, who depend on gas torches for their daily tasks such as soldering, melting, and repairing ornaments. This crisis is disrupting operations in key jewelry hubs across the city.
Artisans Forced to Shut Shops as Cylinders Become Scarce
In bustling jewelry centers like Chowk Sarafa Bazar and Aminabad, artisans typically use LPG-fuelled flames to join delicate parts, resize rings, and fix broken chains. However, with cylinders becoming increasingly difficult to arrange, many workshops have been compelled to halt their activities entirely.
Raju Soni, a goldsmith based in Chowk, reported that he had to close his shop after failing to procure an LPG cylinder. Other artisans mentioned they are only working until their remaining gas supply runs out, highlighting the precarious nature of their situation.
Supply Issues and Price Hikes Exacerbate the Crisis
Ashu, an artisan from Rajasthan who works in Aminabad, stated that he has gas left for only about 10 more days. "Cylinders are not easily available now, and arranging one has become a challenge," he explained, underscoring the growing desperation among workers.
Jewelers have also raised alarms over a steep rise in prices. Mohd Aquib noted that cylinders that previously cost around Rs 1,100 are now being sold for Rs 1,300 to Rs 1,400. He added that supply has slowed significantly, with deliveries facing considerable delays.
Impact on Customer Orders and Business Deadlines
The shortage is causing significant delays in completing customer orders, further straining the local jewelry industry. Punit, another artisan from Aminabad, emphasized that most of their work relies entirely on LPG. "Without regular supply, meeting deadlines becomes difficult," he said, pointing to the broader economic repercussions.
This LPG crisis not only threatens the livelihoods of these artisans but also risks disrupting the supply chain for jewelry repairs and custom orders in Lucknow, potentially leading to longer-term financial losses for small businesses in the sector.
