LPG Gas Shortage Hits Chakan: Vada Pav ₹40+, Tea ₹30; Workers Struggle For Daily Meals
Severe LPG shortage in Pune’s Chakan industrial belt pushes food prices up, hits workers, eateries and supply chains
A growing LPG gas shortage has begun to severely impact daily life in Pune’s Chakan Industrial Estate, with food prices rising sharply and basic meals slipping out of reach for thousands of workers.
Inside company canteens and outside factory gates, the crisis is becoming increasingly visible. A simple vada pav, once an affordable staple, now costs between ₹30 and ₹40, while a cup of tea has risen to ₹20–₹30. Common items like egg bhurji, omelette and bhaji are also becoming expensive, making it difficult for daily wage workers to manage regular meals.
Food Costs Rise, Workers Feel The Heat
The industrial belt, which employs thousands of migrant workers working long 12-hour shifts, depends heavily on small eateries and roadside stalls for affordable food. With cooking gas in short supply, vendors are either increasing prices or reducing portion sizes, leaving workers with limited options.
A basic plate of dal, rice and vegetables that earlier cost ₹65–₹70 is now priced at ₹90–₹100, often with smaller servings. Several commonly consumed items are gradually disappearing from menus as vendors shift to food that requires less fuel.
Small Eateries Cutting Down Or Shutting
The impact is equally severe on small food businesses. Many roadside stalls and local hotels are struggling to operate due to the shortage of commercial gas cylinders. Some have scaled down their menus, while others have temporarily shut operations.
The situation has created an atmosphere of concern among both customers and business owners, with rising costs and falling demand affecting daily earnings.
Impact Spreads To Transport And Gig Workers
The crisis is no longer limited to food vendors. It is now affecting transport workers and gig economy employees as well. Truck drivers and delivery workers are facing reduced availability of food options, while food delivery partners are reporting a sharp drop in orders due to fewer operational restaurants.
Many gig workers have seen their daily earnings fall by 50% to 70%, reflecting the wider economic impact of the shortage.
Migration Fears As Crisis Deepens
With rising expenses and limited food access, some workers have started returning to their native places. The ongoing shortage of commercial LPG and reduced PNG supply in parts of Pune has further tightened the situation for industries and businesses.
If the crisis continues, it could trigger a larger disruption across supply chains and workforce availability in industrial zones.
Disclaimer: This report is based on current developments and may change as supply conditions improve or stabilise.
