LPG shortage hits students in Patna; many skip meals or rely on packaged food

Patna: The LPG shortage has severely affected students living in hostels and paying guest (PG) accommodations, but it has also created major problems for bachelors residing in lodges across different localities of the city.

Youths living in lodges and rented rooms earlier relied on 5kg mini LPG cylinders for cooking, often refilling them at higher prices. However, the current shortage has forced many to skip meals or depend on ready-made and packaged foods.




Brijesh Kumar, a native of Saharsa living in a lodge in the Digha area, said, “We don’t have an LPG connection. We used the 5 kg mini cylinders for cooking food. Earlier, before the war began, the price of LPG per kilogram was Rs 110. After the war broke out, the price of LPG per kilogram increased to Rs 250/kg. We refilled our cylinders at local general stores and shops, but now they also lack the availability of LPG cylinders.”

Suraj Sinha, another lodge resident in Mahendru, said many students have reduced their daily meals. Breakfast has been dropped from the routine so that the available gas lasts longer.

Several bachelors living in rented accommodation have also begun relying on ready-to-eat packaged foods to conserve fuel.

“I am working in a private firm in the city. I started using packaged foods like bread and butter, noodles, mixtures and biscuits for breakfast and supper. Local eateries and food stalls also raised food prices due to the fuel crisis,” said Ramashray Prasad, a native of Munger living in a rented room in Anandpuri.

Some students are even considering returning to their homes until the situation improves.

“A healthy mind remains in a healthy body. If I do not get a proper diet, then it will be very difficult to study. I recently returned to Patna from my native place after Holi, but now it seems that I will have to return. When the war ends and fuel supply becomes normal, then I will resume my studies, as it is very difficult for my family to bear the increased food prices,” said Ramanuj Sharma, a medical aspirant.