Odisha Street Vendors Issue Ultimatum Over LPG Crisis, Threaten Mass Protest
The All Odisha Roadside Vendors' Association has issued a stern warning to the state government, demanding immediate action to secure commercial LPG supply for its members. The association has threatened to take to the streets in protest if the ongoing gas cylinder shortage is not resolved within the next four days.
Letter to Chief Minister Highlights Dire Situation
In a formal letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the association detailed the severe impact of the LPG crisis on roadside eateries across Odisha. Many vendors have been forced to shut down their operations completely due to the unavailability of cylinders, while others are resorting to purchasing them from black marketeers at exorbitant prices.
Suraj Kumar Dora, who operates a tiffin center in Patia, shared his distressing experience. "I recently bought a domestic LPG cylinder weighing 14.2 kilograms from the black market for Rs 3,000," he revealed. "To cope with this increased cost, I had to raise the base price of a tiffin plate from Rs 30 to Rs 40. However, on Saturday, I couldn't obtain a gas cylinder at all, forcing me to stop preparing snacks and tiffin items entirely."
Widespread Impact on Small Food Vendors and Consumers
Pratap Kumar Sahu, president of the association, emphasized that small food vendors operating on streets are bearing the brunt of this crisis. "During this gas shortage, some unscrupulous traders are engaging in black marketing activities, making it nearly impossible for small vendors to afford gas cylinders," Sahu stated.
He further explained that the consequences extend beyond the vendors themselves. "Poor people, daily wage workers, homeless individuals, and students who depend on these vendors for affordable meals are all facing significant difficulties," Sahu added. "Many vendors are being forced to shift from selling cooked food items to selling fruits, vegetables, or other goods just to survive."
Proposed Solution and Government Appeal
The association has proposed a concrete solution to alleviate the crisis. "If more than 30,000 food vendors across Odisha could be provided with cooking gas at a subsidized rate, it would solve many of their problems and help those who rely on their services," Sahu asserted.
In their letter to the Chief Minister, the association specifically requested that each licensed food vendor receive at least 10 commercial cylinders per month at subsidized rates. This measure, they argue, would ensure a stable supply and prevent vendors from turning to the black market.
The four-day ultimatum underscores the urgency of the situation, with vendors prepared to escalate their demands through public demonstrations if their needs are not addressed promptly.
