LPG Crisis in Coimbatore Triggers Sharp Decline in Banana Leaf Usage
The ongoing LPG shortage in Coimbatore district has led to a significant reduction in menu offerings at many eateries and restaurants, resulting in a steep decline in the use of banana leaves. This development has adversely affected farmers and workers involved in leaf harvesting, with harvesting activity dropping by nearly 30% and prices plummeting.
Farmers Face Economic Hardship as Demand Dries Up
Farmers report that the price of a bundle of 100 banana leaves has fallen dramatically from around Rs 660 to Rs 300. R Periyasamy, vice-president of the Tamil Nadu Farmers Association, highlighted that banana leaves are cultivated on nearly 6,000 acres of land across 10 revenue villages in the Thondamuthur union, which accounts for 80% of the district's total production.
Following restrictions on plastic use in food industries, demand for banana leaves had increased substantially. Approximately 70% of the leaves are supplied to restaurants, while 25% are used in marriage halls. Periyasamy explained that banana leaves can be harvested every alternate day from 18 to 24 months after planting, providing a steady income stream for farmers.
LPG Shortage Linked to Conflict Disrupts Supply Chain
However, the LPG shortage, connected to broader ongoing conflicts, has forced many eateries to reduce their menus and production since early March, leading to a sharp drop in demand. K Jeyabal, who operates a banana leaf shop in the Poo Market area, noted that many farmers now supply leaves to traders on a contract basis to ensure stable income.
Jeyabal revealed that mandi prices, which once reached Rs 700 per bundle, dropped to Rs 80–Rs 120 last week as eateries scaled back operations. However, prices recovered to around Rs 400 during recent auspicious wedding days, offering temporary relief. He expressed optimism that banana leaf demand and prices would stabilize once hotel operations return to normal.
Broader Implications for Local Agriculture
The situation underscores the vulnerability of agricultural supply chains to external disruptions. The decline in banana leaf usage not only impacts farmers' livelihoods but also affects workers in harvesting and distribution. The community hopes for a swift resolution to the LPG shortage to restore economic stability in the region.
