Varanasi Forest Department Steps In to Mitigate LPG Crisis with Firewood Initiative
In response to the ongoing LPG crisis affecting households in eastern Uttar Pradesh, the Forest Department in Varanasi has launched a strategic initiative to provide firewood as an alternative fuel source. This move aims to alleviate the pressure on petroleum products and promote sustainable energy solutions for the general public.
Meeting Addresses Firewood Availability and Pricing
Conservator of Forests for the Varanasi Circle, Ravi Kumar Singh, convened a crucial meeting on Monday to discuss the availability of firewood within the division. The gathering included key stakeholders such as divisional logging managers from the circle, representatives from the Uttar Pradesh Forest Corporation, divisional sales managers from Mirzapur and Varanasi, and District Forest Officers (DFOs). The primary objectives outlined were the judicious use of petroleum products, the development of alternative energy resources, and ensuring accessibility for the public.
Firewood Stock and Depot Locations
During the meeting, Taufiq Ahmad, the divisional sales manager of the Uttar Pradesh Forest Corporation, provided detailed information on the current firewood inventory. A total of 1,407 cubic meters of firewood is available across seven timber depots strategically located in the region. These depots include:
- Prayagraj Meja Timber Depot
- Mauaima Depot
- Kaushambi Fatehpur Timber Depot
- Pratapgarh Tawankalpur Timber Depot
- Varanasi Depot
- Chandauli Ratanbagh Timber Depot
- Jaunpur Timber Depot
- Ghazipur Nandganj Timber Depot
This widespread availability ensures that residents in various parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh can access the resource conveniently.
Pricing Structure and Timber Quality
Forest corporation officials presented the base price for firewood for the financial year 2025-26, starting at a minimum of Rs 405 per cubic meter. For the general public, firewood can be purchased through regular auctions at a rate of Rs 866 per cubic meter. The depots stock high-calorific value timber varieties such as babool, sagaun (teak), jamun, and sheesham, which are available in sufficient quantities. These types of timber not only meet household energy needs but can also support small-scale industries, including restaurants, dhabas, and other private fuel requirements.
Directives for Public Accessibility
Conservator Ravi Kumar Singh issued specific directives to forest officials to enhance public access to firewood. He instructed them to sell firewood timber at the base price through departmental rates, exempting it from auction processes at the depots. Additionally, officials in the Varanasi, Ghazipur, Rampur, and Jaunpur divisions were directed to collaborate with licensed mills to saw timber and make firewood available to the general public at these departmental rates. This approach aims to streamline the distribution process and ensure affordability during the LPG shortage.
This initiative by the Varanasi Forest Department represents a proactive step towards addressing energy challenges in eastern Uttar Pradesh, offering a viable alternative to LPG while promoting the use of local resources.
