Small eateries and roadside vendors in Bhubaneswar are facing severe financial stress as escalating prices of cooking oil and commercial LPG disrupt daily operations. Many long-standing food businesses are being forced to shut down or operate at losses, putting the city’s beloved street food culture at risk.
Skyrocketing Costs Hit Small Businesses
Vendors report that LPG cylinders, essential for running their eateries, now cost around ₹2,000, while cooking oil prices continue to climb. One vendor explained, “While one side of the LPG costs is burning a hole in our pockets, the other side of the cooking oil price rise is breaking our backs.”
The dilemma is clear: raising prices drives away customers, while keeping them low ensures losses. The result has been the rapid closure of many once-popular small businesses in the city.
Global Oil Crisis Impacts Local Supply
The current energy crisis stems from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with wars affecting global oil and gas supplies. Despite emergency measures by the USA, G7 nations, and the International Energy Agency, including the release of 400 million barrels of oil from reserves, prices remain volatile.
Experts note that alternative oil routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz are insufficient to stabilize prices. India’s demand of 5,50,000 barrels daily leaves little room for supply shortfalls, threatening further energy shortages.
Commercial LPG Supply Under Strain
While domestic LPG supply remains stable, commercial users—including hotels, eateries, and vendors—face rationing. India imports 65% of its LPG, making local businesses vulnerable to disruptions.
Officials stated that domestic consumers can book a cylinder every 25 days and expect delivery within three days. Meanwhile, a new committee regulates commercial gas distribution to industries and vendors.
CNG and piped gas supplies continue uninterrupted, but Utkal Petroleum Dealers Association warned that prolonged disruptions could affect these as well.
Political Debate Over Energy Crisis
The energy shortage has sparked political controversy. Opposition parties accuse the ruling BJP of focusing on politics instead of addressing public distress. “While the gas prices go up, supply is low, and black marketing is rampant, the BJP is busy politicking,” said Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik.
Defending the government, BJP MLA Ashok Mohanty emphasized sufficient gas availability and urged the opposition to avoid spreading rumors, highlighting measures to curb black marketing and public hardship.
Threat to Bhubaneswar’s Food Scene
Small vendors, who serve affordable meals to office workers, students, and families, are on the verge of collapse. Without immediate relief measures such as subsidies, price controls, or temporary discounts, the city’s vibrant street food culture may soon disappear.