The ongoing Iran–Israel conflict is now affecting daily life in Karnataka, with Indira Canteens in Kalaburagi switching to wood-fired stoves after commercial LPG cylinder supplies were disrupted
Kalaburagi: The ripple effects of the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel are now being felt in Kalaburagi, where a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has forced Indira Canteen kitchens to switch to traditional wood-burning stoves for cooking.
The conflict in the Middle East, which has continued for more than a week, has disrupted energy supply chains and affected LPG availability in several parts of India. In Kalaburagi, the shortage of commercial cylinders since Thursday has created difficulties for both hoteliers and public food service programs.
As a result, all eight Indira Canteens operating in Kalaburagi city have been compelled to cook food using firewood after their LPG cylinder supplies were exhausted.
Canteens Switch to Firewood to Continue Feeding the Poor
Until Wednesday, canteen staff were managing operations using their existing gas cylinders. However, when fresh supplies failed to arrive, workers had no choice but to revert to wood-fired cooking methods to continue serving meals.
Due to limited cooking capacity on firewood stoves, some menu items have been affected. Chapatis are now being procured from outside vendors, while certain dishes have been temporarily removed from the menu.
The situation is particularly challenging at the Indira Canteen located near Kalaburagi Government Hospital, where there is usually high demand for meals such as idli and sambar.
Because of the gas shortage, the kitchen has reduced its offerings, with simple items like salted avalakki being served instead.
“Workers are not willing to cook on wood stoves, but we are doing it ourselves because we do not want poor people to go hungry,” said Basavaraj, a staff member at the canteen.
Hotels and Caterers Also Turn to Firewood
The LPG shortage has not only affected public canteens but has also created difficulties for restaurants, roadside eateries, and catering services across Kalaburagi.
In previous instances of gas supply disruptions, hotel kitchens and caterers had temporarily relied on traditional wood stoves, and the same pattern is now emerging again.
Caterers who have taken contracts for weddings, community events, and large gatherings say they are now purchasing firewood from local timber vendors in the city to continue food preparation.
Hotel owners and event caterers say the situation has increased operational costs and created uncertainty for upcoming programs.
Uncertainty Over Duration of LPG Shortage
The sudden disruption has raised concerns among traders and residents about how long the LPG shortage will continue.
Industry observers warn that if cylinder supplies are not restored quickly, the situation could escalate further, affecting hotels, public food schemes, and household kitchens.
