Gas runs out, messes switch to electricity; some face closure

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Mess facilities across the city are facing a crisis due to an LPG cylinder shortage. With gas supplies running out, several operators have shifted to electric stoves, while those without adequate electricity arrangements say they may be forced to shut down.

Mess operator Shrikant Khadkikar from Cidco said their gas has already run out, but they continue operating as many students depend on the mess. “We have shifted to four electric stoves, but the menu has been reduced to one vegetable, roti and dal-rice instead of two dishes. Prices may have to be increased in the coming days,” he said. However, some operators have no alternative. At a mess near Kamgar Chowk, Sharda Chikhale said the gas would last only till tonight and the mess may shut from tomorrow. “We cannot use electric stoves because of voltage issues in the kitchen area,” she said. Meanwhile, Seema Salve, a mess operator from N-2, said their gas could run out anytime. They are currently cooking on two electric stoves, but operations depend entirely on power supply. She said four women work at the mess and none will be laid off, while mess charges have not been increased so far.