Students, Aspirants Struggle to Get Affordable Food as LPG Shortage Hits Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The West Asia war is now affecting students’ future. It is not only limited to global markets but is now directly impacting daily life in cities like Bhubaneswar, where students are struggling to access basic necessities like food.

Students and competitive exam aspirants in Bhubaneswar are facing serious difficulties in accessing affordable food. The situation is particularly challenging in major student hubs like Jayadev Vihar, CRP, Nayapalli, Patia and Khandagiri, where thousands of aspirants live and prepare for exams.

What is Happening?

The problem has been triggered by a shortage of LPG (cooking gas), which has disrupted food supply across these areas. Many small food suppliers who earlier provided regular Meals, tiffin services to students have now shut down.

At the same time, several hotels and mess services have either increased their prices or stopped operations, leaving students with very limited options.

Food Prices See Sharp Rise

The cost of basic meals has gone up within a short period:

• Roti price increased from ₹5 to ₹7
• Curry price increased from ₹70 to ₹100

This sudden increase is putting additional financial pressure on students.

Students Struggle to Manage Monthly Budget

With rising food prices and fewer affordable options, students are finding it difficult to manage their monthly expenses. Many aspirants depend on low-cost food services, and the current situation is forcing them to spend more than their usual budget. Some students said that if the situation continues, they may have no option but to leave the city and return to their villages, as managing living expenses is becoming difficult.

Daily Wage Labourers Also Hit

The crisis is not limited to students. Daily wage labourers in the city are also facing difficulties in cooking food due to the LPG shortage and rising costs. Many of them are unable to afford regular meals and have started returning to their villages in search of work and better living conditions.

Impact on Daily Life

• Students are struggling to get regular meals
• Hostel, PG and mess facilities have reduced food supply
• Study routines are getting disturbed
• Expenses are increasing significantly
• Labourers are leaving the city due to rising living costs

What Triggered the Crisis?

• Shortage of LPG supply
• Closure of local food suppliers
• Workers leaving for their villages due to difficulties

Current Situation

The situation has created concern among students and workers in Bhubaneswar. With limited food availability and rising costs, many are finding it difficult to manage daily life.

If the issue continues, it may further impact thousands of students and daily wage earners who depend on the city for their livelihood and future.