Bengaluru is grappling with a severe shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East including the Iran-Israel-US conflict and disruptions in imports via the Strait of Hormuz.
While hotels, restaurants, PG accommodations, and eateries face major disruptions with many limiting menus or switching to alternatives the crisis is hitting vulnerable sections hardest: old age homes, orphanages, and shelter ashramas for the destitute.
In Laggere's Asare Ashrama, cooking has come to a standstill due to zero cylinder availability. Ashrama president Naidu expressed strong outrage against the government "No cylinders to cook rice how are the elderly and destitute supposed to eat? Are they invisible to the authorities?" With hundreds residing there, meals are now prepared in neighboring residents' homes as a temporary fix, but this is unsustainable.Shining Diva Fashion 18k Gold & Silver Plated Pearl Jewellery Set | Latest Stylish Design Fancy Traditional Jewellery | Trendy Celebrity Inspired Designer Jewellery
Similarly, at Sneh Jeeva Ashrama in Sondikoppa, Nelamangala, the situation is dire. Without cylinders, staff are forced to use traditional wood-fired stoves (chulhas) for cooking. The ashrama houses numerous orphans, elderly residents, and patients with BP and diabetes.
Delays in timely, nutritious meals raise serious health risks, potentially worsening conditions for those with chronic illnesses. Ashrama administrators question the priorities "Only hotels and PGs get attention? Aren't people in ashramas human too?" The state government claims priority supply to hospitals, schools, hostels, and essential sectors, but ashramas catering to society's weakest are largely overlooked.Sasikala-Ramadoss Alliance: A New Battle in Tamil Nadu..!
Black marketing has surged, with cylinders sold at triple prices (up to ₹1,900–₹3,000 for commercial ones), making it unaffordable for non-profits. Many ashramas resort to unsafe methods like open fires, posing fire hazards and health issues from smoke. This is not a long-term solution.
The crisis underscores the need for urgent intervention special quotas for welfare institutions, crackdown on black marketing, and transparent distribution.Jammu university adds Jinnah’s name in modern Indian Politics syllabus
Civil society must raise awareness and pressure authorities to ensure no one goes hungry due to this avoidable shortage. Vulnerable groups deserve immediate relief before health crises escalate.West Bengal Elections, After BJP, CPI(M) announced their 32 candidates.