Kolhapur Kerosene Sellers Urge Government to Release Stock Amid Gas Shortage Crisis
The Kerosene Sellers and Fair Price Shops Association in Kolhapur has formally requested the government to release restored kerosene stock as an alternative fuel source. This appeal comes amid a severe gas shortage triggered by the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the Israel-Iran conflict, which has disrupted energy supplies across the region.
Formal Representation Submitted to Authorities
A written representation has been submitted to District Supply Officer Mohini Chavan, with a similar appeal directed to Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal. Ravindra More, head of the Fair Price Shop Owners Association, emphasized the urgency of the situation. "Because of the war-like scenario, the state is experiencing a critical gas shortage," More stated. "The central government has advised using alternative fuels, so the restored kerosene stock should be made available for immediate sale."
More highlighted that blue kerosene was previously issued on ration cards but was discontinued due to misuse. "Given the current crisis, kerosene should be reintroduced. We demand that it be supplied through ration cards until the gas shortage is fully resolved," he added.
Gas Agency Operations and Citizen Struggles
On Saturday, gas agency operations remained largely unchanged, with long queues of citizens desperately seeking cylinders. A few delivery vehicles were observed supplying cylinders in various parts of Kolhapur, providing minimal relief. The scarcity has forced many residents and businesses to seek alternative solutions.
Surge in Demand for Alternative Fuels and Appliances
The gas cylinder shortage has led to a significant increase in demand for coal and firewood in Kolhapur's timber market. Numerous hotels and restaurants have shifted to fire pits for cooking, adapting to the crisis. Simultaneously, electronics stores are experiencing a boom in sales.
Shrenik Patil, an electronics store owner, reported, "Due to the gas shortage, people are rapidly turning to electrical appliances. Over the last three to four days, demand for ovens, air fryers, induction stoves, and water heaters has tripled." Patil noted that stocks quickly depleted, and even large orders placed with companies are being fulfilled only up to 25%.
Disruption to Food Businesses and Temple Activities
The gas shortage has severely impacted food businesses across the region. Production of the famous ‘basundi’ at Nrusinhawadi has come to a complete halt, bringing hotel and sweet-making activities to a standstill. In Ratnagiri district, the preparation of ‘ladoo’ prasad at the renowned Ganpatipule temple has also been suspended due to the lack of gas cylinders.
This multifaceted crisis underscores the broader effects of geopolitical conflicts on local economies and daily life. The association's plea for kerosene highlights the need for immediate governmental intervention to alleviate the suffering of citizens and businesses alike.
