Hazaribag's Educational Hub Grapples with Student Exodus Amid Severe LPG Crisis
Life in Hazaribag's premier coaching hub, the Korrha-Matwari belt, has been severely disrupted by a crippling cooking gas shortage. Often dubbed the town's "Mukherji Nagar" due to its dense concentration of competitive exam aspirants and college students, this vital educational nerve center is now witnessing a significant departure of its student population.
Erratic Supply and Soaring Prices Force Students Home
With LPG supply turning unpredictable and prices escalating sharply, numerous students residing in lodges and hostels have begun returning to their hometowns. Localities such as Korrha, Matwari, and Babugaon, preferred for their affordable accommodation and proximity to coaching centers and libraries, are feeling the impact. Estimates suggest over one lakh students live in these areas.
The Korrha-Matwari belt alone is home to more than 200 coaching institutes that prepare aspirants for prestigious exams like UPSC, JPSC, SSC, banking, and various other competitive tests, cementing its status as a major regional educational hub.
Daily Routines Shattered as Budgets Strained
The ongoing LPG shortage has critically affected the daily routines of students, many of whom rely on small cylinders for cooking. Streets from Korrha Chowk to PTC Road, typically bustling with student activity, now show thinner crowds as departures increase.
Students report that the sharp price rise has further strained their limited finances. LPG, previously priced around Rs 90 per kilogram, is now reportedly selling for nearly Rs 200 per kg in the open market.
"Because of the gas shortage, several lodges are gradually becoming empty as students are returning home," stated Gaurav Kumar, a student living in the Matwari area.
"Without gas, we cannot cook food. In such a situation, going back home seems to be the only option," explained Munna Kumar Sharma, another aspirant preparing for competitive examinations.
Lodge Owners and Local Businesses Feel the Pinch
"The sudden price hike badly disturbed our budget," said Deepak Kumar, a lodge owner, adding that students living away from home are struggling to manage their expenses.
Students also highlighted booking delays as a major issue. "Due to server problems and booking issues, cylinders are not being delivered on time," noted Roshan Kumar, an aspirant.
The shortage has begun to ripple through local economies. Vendors selling vegetables, snacks, stationery, and tea near student hubs reported declining sales as lodges gradually emptied.
Official Response and Student Appeals
Officials, however, maintain that the situation is temporary and that supply is being streamlined. Authorities have appealed to consumers not to panic or make unnecessary bookings, assuring that availability will improve soon.
Students have urgently appealed to the administration to ensure a regular supply of small cylinders, enabling those staying in lodges to continue their studies without further disruption.
