Kolkata Stray Feeders Innovate Amid LPG Shortage to Sustain Animal Care
The ongoing LPG cylinder crisis in Kolkata has presented significant hurdles for stray feeders across the city, compelling them to adopt creative and resourceful methods to prepare meals for their furry companions. With gas scarcity disrupting daily routines, these dedicated individuals are exploring various alternatives to ensure that stray animals do not go hungry, highlighting the resilience of Kolkata's animal welfare community.
Shift to Dry and Packaged Food Options
In response to the LPG shortage, many stray feeders have temporarily transitioned to dry or packaged food items to bypass dependence on cooking gas. Options such as flattened rice, biscuits, bread, and kibble are being utilized to provide sustenance. Hazra resident Arushi Bhattacharya, an employee at a private firm, has made this switch over recent days. She feeds approximately 22 strays daily and expressed concerns about managing with limited resources. "It is difficult for me to manage alternative ways with limited resources. I feed about 22 strays daily and I cannot let them starve just because LPG is unavailable now. I have stocked up on dry food for a week. After that, I am not sure how to continue if the gas scarcity lingers," she stated, underscoring the uncertainty faced by feeders.
Adoption of Induction Cooktops and Wood Fire
Some feeders have turned to induction cooktops or wood fire as more sustainable cooking methods. Radhika Bose, who feeds around 400 strays daily in areas like New Alipore, Taratala, Kalighat, and Hazra, has switched to induction. However, she noted the challenges: "We are going around begging for LPG as it is difficult to use induction to prepare meals for so many strays. It seems that the crisis might stay for some time, so we are planning to buy an electric cooker." This move reflects a proactive approach to adapting to prolonged shortages, though it involves higher initial costs and logistical issues.
Collaborative Efforts and Community Support
Community collaboration has become crucial in navigating the crisis. Alipore resident T J Mookerjea and his neighbors continue their stray feeding initiative despite the tough situation. They have decided to feed strays flattened rice mixed with chicken broth and pieces, and may incorporate dog food into the mixture. Similarly, Nagerbazar resident Manisha Chowdhury has teamed up with other animal lovers to feed about 500 strays daily at locations including Burrabazar, Tea Board area, Posta, and the R G Kar Hospital area. She emphasized the difficulty in changing diets: "All these strays have a habit of eating rice and chicken, so shifting them to dry food is tough. I have no option but to arrange for cylinders or shift to cooking on coal and wood ovens."
Financial Implications and Long-Term Planning
The LPG crisis is also impacting the financial aspects of stray feeding. Behala resident Sunetra Bhattacharya, who feeds around 15 dogs daily with a monthly expense of approximately Rs 18,000, warned that the crisis could raise costs. "The LPG crisis threatens to raise the expenses as I may have to use induction cooktops or feed them packaged food," she explained. This highlights the broader economic strain on feeders, who often rely on personal funds to support their efforts.
As Kolkata grapples with the LPG shortage, stray feeders demonstrate remarkable adaptability and commitment. Their efforts to explore alternatives like induction, wood fire, and dry food not only ensure the well-being of stray animals but also shed light on the challenges faced by those dedicated to animal welfare in urban settings. The crisis underscores the need for sustainable solutions and community support to maintain these vital feeding initiatives.
