Confectioners fear layoffs as coal stoves replace commercial LPG
Jamshedpur: The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has started affecting sweet shops and food outlets in the city, forcing many confectioners to revert to traditional coal stoves to continue their operations. Shop owners have expressed concern that if the situation persists, it may lead to disruption in production and possible layoffs.
Gurdayal Singh Bhatia, operator of the Chhappan Bhog franchise, said the situation is becoming increasingly serious. According to him, the stock of commercial gas cylinders available at his establishment will last only for one or two days. After that, the shop will have no option but to rely on coal-fired stoves to keep the kitchen running.
Bhatia explained that working with coal stoves is a slow and difficult process compared to modern gas-based systems. He added that most kitchens today are designed for LPG-based cooking, making it challenging to adapt quickly to traditional fuel methods. Some units that use steam boiler systems are still able to manage their work, but the overall production of sweets and snacks has become difficult.
He also pointed out that switching to large induction cooktops is not a practical solution for large-scale food production. Industrial induction units required for such operations cost between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2 lakh each. In addition, these machines require a high electrical load, and obtaining immediate approval from the electricity department for such power connections is not easy.
Currently, some shops are using small induction cooktops at their counters for minor tasks, but they are not sufficient to handle large-scale cooking or preparation of sweets and snacks.
The shortage is also expected to affect small food stalls operating outside major sweet shops. These stalls usually serve items such as chaat, noodles and other hot vegetarian snacks. Shop owners fear that if coal stoves fail to meet the demand, they may be forced to temporarily stop selling these hot food items.
Bhatia warned that if the supply of commercial LPG cylinders does not improve soon, shop owners might have to reduce their workforce. He said once skilled workers leave, it becomes difficult to bring them back and restart operations smoothly.
Meanwhile, Davinder Singh, proprietor of Gangour, said that stalls operating outside sweet shops may have to slow down or remain closed for a few days until the gas supply situation improves.
