US–Israel–Iran conflict triggers LPG crisis, hotels shut in Bengaluru region, farmers suffer massive losses as vegetables rot in markets
Chikkaballapur: The ripple effects of the ongoing tensions involving United States, Israel and Iran are now being felt in Karnataka’s agricultural belt, where vegetable farmers in Chikkaballapur are facing severe losses due to a sudden crash in prices.
The crisis has been triggered by a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, which has forced many hotels across Bengaluru and nearby regions to shut operations, drastically reducing demand for vegetables.
Hotels Shut, Demand Collapses
With restaurants and eateries dependent on commercial gas cylinders facing shortages, bulk buyers of vegetables have disappeared overnight. This has led to a massive glut in local markets, particularly in the Agricultural Produce Market Committee yards of Chikkaballapur.
Farmers say vegetables that were once in high demand are now lying unsold and rotting in heaps, pushing them into distress.
“We worked day and night to grow these crops, but now there are no buyers,” farmers lamented.
Sharp Price Crash in Just 20 Days
The impact has been swift and severe. Within just a few weeks, vegetable prices have plummeted drastically:
- Beans: from ₹80–₹100/kg to ₹20/kg
- Carrots: ₹8/kg
- Gourds: ₹5/kg
- Potatoes: ₹6/kg
- Okra: ₹10/kg
- Onions: ₹12/kg
- Radish: ₹5/kg
- Brinjal: as low as ₹2/kg
Farmers revealed that even large bags of beans are being sold for just ₹300–₹400, far below production cost.
Chikkaballapur’s Supply Chain Disrupted
Known for its large-scale supply of vegetables, fruits, and flowers to metro cities, Chikkaballapur’s agricultural economy is now under pressure due to supply chain disruption caused by the LPG crisis.
The region, which regularly supplies produce to Bengaluru and other urban centers, is witnessing unprecedented wastage and financial loss.
Double Blow from War and Gas Crisis
Experts note that the global geopolitical tensions have indirectly triggered local economic disruption, with the LPG shortage affecting the hospitality sector and, in turn, the agricultural supply chain.
The situation highlights how international conflicts can have deep grassroots impacts, especially on vulnerable farming communities.
Farmers in Distress, Seek Relief
With crops rotting and prices crashing, farmers are demanding government intervention, market support, and alternative supply channels to prevent further losses.
