Lucknow Businesses Shift to Diesel Stoves Amid LPG Shortage Crisis
In Lucknow, a severe shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has compelled sweet shops, roadside eateries, and catering units to adopt diesel-fired stoves, many of which are locally improvised 'jugaad' units. This shift aims to ensure uninterrupted bulk food supply during the ongoing wedding and festive season, as operators face repeated delays in cylinder refills.
Operators Explore Alternatives to Combat Supply Delays
Business owners reported that they began exploring alternatives due to persistent delays in LPG cylinder deliveries. In several markets across the city, diesel 'bhattis' (ovens) are now being used either as a backup or as the primary cooking device to avoid disruptions in food preparation. Many of these stoves are fabricated or assembled locally using readily available components.
How the Improvised Diesel Stoves Work
The typical setup for these diesel stoves includes a small diesel tank, an electric air blower, connecting pipes, and a metal furnace chamber. Diesel is pumped to a nozzle where it is sprayed, mixed with air, and ignited to produce a high-intensity flame suitable for large-scale cooking. The units are generally constructed from mild steel or stainless-steel frames, with cast-iron burners designed to support large utensils.
Basic fuel valves and air regulators are employed to manage the flame, though operators note that heat control is not as precise as with LPG systems. Rizwan Ahmad, owner of a restaurant unit, explained, "We cannot afford to stop cooking because of LPG delays. These diesel stoves, even the locally assembled ones, help us continue bulk preparation. Diesel is easily available and the cost is manageable compared to shutting operations."
Practicality Over Traditional Methods
Some business owners have found diesel stoves to be more practical than the coal or wood-fired furnaces they previously used. Manoj Gupta, owner of an Aliganj sweet shop, stated, "Coal bhatti requires more storage space and manual handling. These diesel units are easier to operate and require less effort, though they are temporary arrangements."
Operational Concerns and Increased Demand
Despite their utility, users have pointed out operational concerns. Ajay Sharma, who runs an eatery in Hazratganj, said, "The main issue is that heat cannot be regulated as accurately as in LPG stoves. But given the shortage of commercial cylinders, this 'jugaad' is helping us manage daily cooking."
Traders dealing in commercial kitchen equipment have observed a surge in enquiries for diesel 'bhattis'. Sanjay Verma, a trader from Aminabad, noted, "Halwai shops and caterers are approaching us for diesel stoves as an alternative due to LPG supply issues."
Environmental Impact and Future Plans
Although there are concerns about higher smoke and emissions compared to LPG, operators indicated they might continue to keep diesel stoves as an emergency backup even after regular LPG supply resumes. This adaptive response underscores the resilience of local businesses in navigating supply chain challenges during critical periods.
