Street vendors in Bengaluru are fighting to keep their businesses alive as a severe LPG crisis grips the city. The shortage of cooking gas has forced many to cut down on operations or switch to alternatives like charcoal, impacting their daily earnings and the availability of affordable street food for residents.
Impact on Vendors
For vendors like Rajesh, who runs a popular dosa stall in Koramangala, the crisis has meant reducing the number of customers he serves. "I used to make 300 dosas a day, but now I am down to 150 because I cannot get enough LPG cylinders," he said. Many vendors report waiting weeks for refills, with some being forced to pay black market prices that eat into their thin profit margins.
The situation is particularly dire for those who rely solely on LPG for cooking. Some have turned to traditional methods, such as using charcoal or wood-fired stoves, which are slower and produce more smoke, affecting the quality of food and customer experience.
Rising Costs and Supply Issues
The LPG crisis stems from a combination of factors, including supply chain disruptions, rising global prices, and hoarding by middlemen. The price of a commercial LPG cylinder has shot up by nearly 30% in the past year, making it unaffordable for many small vendors. Even those willing to pay higher prices often cannot find cylinders.
"I have to buy from the black market at double the price just to stay open," said Sunita, a vendor selling vada pav near MG Road. "But that cuts my profit to almost nothing."
Government Response and Vendor Demands
The Karnataka government has acknowledged the issue but says it is working to improve supply. Officials from the food and civil supplies department have held meetings with LPG distributors to ensure regular supply to street vendors. However, vendors say the measures are insufficient.
Vendor associations are demanding subsidized LPG cylinders and a streamlined distribution system. "We contribute to the city's economy and feed thousands of people daily. The government must step in to help us," said Manjunath, a leader of the Bengaluru Street Vendors' Association.
Alternatives and Adaptation
Some vendors are exploring alternative fuels like piped natural gas (PNG) or solar-powered cookers, but these options require significant investment and infrastructure changes. In the meantime, many are cutting back on menu items or operating fewer hours to conserve gas.
The crisis has also affected customers, who now face longer wait times and fewer choices. "I used to come here for quick breakfast, but now the vendor is only making limited items," said a regular customer at a stall in Indiranagar.
Looking Ahead
As winter approaches, demand for LPG is expected to rise further, worsening the situation. Street vendors are calling for immediate action to prevent their businesses from collapsing. Without a stable supply of LPG, many fear they may have to shut down permanently, dealing a blow to Bengaluru's vibrant street food culture and the livelihoods of thousands.
