LPG Shortage in Patna Severely Impacts Students and Bachelors in Hostels and Lodges
The ongoing LPG shortage in Patna has created a severe crisis, particularly affecting students living in hostels and paying guest accommodations, as well as bachelors residing in lodges across various localities of the city. This fuel scarcity has led to significant disruptions in daily life, forcing many to alter their eating habits and consider drastic measures.
Skyrocketing Prices and Limited Availability
Youths living in lodges and rented rooms previously depended on 5kg mini LPG cylinders for cooking, often refilling them at elevated prices. However, the current shortage has exacerbated the situation, with many now skipping meals or turning to ready-made and packaged foods to cope. The price of LPG has surged dramatically, from Rs 110 per kilogram before the conflict to Rs 250 per kilogram after the war broke out, making it increasingly unaffordable.
Brijesh Kumar, a native of Saharsa living in a lodge in the Digha area, highlighted the challenges: "We don’t have an LPG connection. We used the 5 kg mini cylinders for cooking food. Earlier, before the war began, the price of LPG per kilogram was Rs 110. After the war broke out, the price increased to Rs 250/kg. We refilled our cylinders at local general stores and shops, but now they also lack the availability of LPG cylinders."
Impact on Daily Routines and Health
The shortage has forced many to reduce their daily meals to conserve fuel. Suraj Sinha, another lodge resident in Mahendru, noted that many students have dropped breakfast from their routines to extend the lifespan of their available gas. This disruption not only affects physical health but also mental well-being, as proper nutrition is crucial for academic performance.
Several bachelors in rented accommodations have resorted to relying on ready-to-eat packaged foods to save fuel. Ramashray Prasad, a native of Munger working in a private firm in Patna and living in a rented room in Anandpuri, shared his experience: "I started using packaged foods like bread and butter, noodles, mixtures, and biscuits for breakfast and supper. Local eateries and food stalls have also raised food prices due to the fuel crisis, making it even harder to afford meals."
Considerations of Returning Home
Some students are contemplating returning to their hometowns until the situation improves, citing the difficulty of maintaining a healthy diet and focusing on studies. Ramanuj Sharma, a medical aspirant, expressed his concerns: "A healthy mind remains in a healthy body. If I do not get a proper diet, then it will be very difficult to study. I recently returned to Patna from my native place after Holi, but now it seems that I will have to return. When the war ends and fuel supply becomes normal, then I will resume my studies, as it is very difficult for my family to bear the increased food prices."
The LPG shortage in Patna underscores broader issues of fuel accessibility and affordability, impacting the most vulnerable populations, including students and young professionals striving to build their futures in the city.
