Operators of tiffin centres, fast-food outlets, biryani shops, and other small eateries in Visakhapatnam are grappling with severe challenges stemming from a shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). With commercial gas cylinders becoming increasingly scarce and domestic deliveries delayed, many vendors have been compelled to revert to traditional cooking methods, such as utilizing firewood, to keep their businesses afloat.
Across the city, numerous eateries have been observed managing their cooking needs by combining the use of LPG cylinders and firewood in an effort to conserve dwindling gas supplies. This rising scarcity has also prompted many food vendors to increase their menu prices to cope with the escalating operational costs and fuel constraints. Y. Shankar, who operates a tiffin centre in Seethammadhara, expressed his frustration, stating, “I had no option but to shift to firewood due to the unavailability of commercial LPG cylinders. It is extremely difficult to cook on firewood in such hot weather conditions. But this is our only source of income, and we cannot stop working.”
Consumers in the area are also struggling, reporting significant delays in the delivery of domestic LPG cylinders. Many claim that despite booking their cylinders in advance, they face long waits, with gas agencies citing issues related to supply shortages. Some small shopkeepers and eateries have resorted to purchasing domestic LPG cylinders from delivery personnel at nearly double the standard rate to maintain operations amidst the ongoing crisis.
As the demand for LPG alternatives surges, electric kitchen appliances are becoming increasingly popular across Visakhapatnam. B. Saraswati, a homemaker from Resapuvanipalem, recently found herself without LPG following a family event. Although she had booked a new cylinder, the delay in delivery forced her to turn to electric appliances for cooking. “These appliances were kept packed away in cupboards as we rarely used them. I had to take them out to prepare lunch for my family,” she remarked.
The shift in cooking methods has led to noticeable queues outside stores specializing in kitchen appliances. Items such as induction stoves, electric cookers, and air fryers are experiencing a significant spike in demand. Nasser Saleh, a representative from the well-known Bombay Gaslight Stores in Assilmetta, noted the sudden surge, stating, “Usually we sell two to three induction stoves a day. But over the past two days, we have sold nearly 100 units.” To accommodate this unforeseen demand, Saleh mentioned that the store has placed bulk orders for these appliances to ensure adequate stock.
The ongoing LPG shortage has not only shifted cooking habits but has also highlighted the vulnerability of small businesses and households reliant on this crucial resource. As the crisis unfolds, many seek reliable alternatives, underscoring the importance of adaptability in the face of pressing challenges. The dynamics of cooking in Visakhapatnam are evolving, reflecting broader trends in resource availability and consumer behavior as residents navigate these complicated circumstances.
Published – March 13, 2026 07:41 pm IST
Category: Andhra Pradesh
Tags: LPG shortage, Visakhapatnam, cooking alternatives, electric appliances
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/vizag-eateries-turn-to-firewood-increase-prices-demand-for-electrical-appliances-rises/article70739329.ece
Category : Andhra Pradesh
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Publish Date: 2026-03-13 22:47:00
