Kolkata: The sharp rise in commercial LPG prices has started to ripple through the city's network of roadside food vendors — an informal ecosystem that feeds lakhs of office-goers every day with filling and affordable meals.
For vendors who line the pavements of commercial hubs like Camac Street and Chowringhee or Dalhousie, or the suburbs, LPG is is the backbone of their livelihood. With open flames and traditional stoves prohibited on busy pavements, most rely entirely on LPG cylinders.
Anath Ghosh, a roadside eatery owner on Camac Street, said, "Raising prices is not easy for us. We have loyal customers from all walks of life. Any increase affects them too." Many vendors have reluctantly raised prices by Rs 5-Rs 10 on staple meals, such as rice with fish or egg curry while trying to retain their customer base. "We had to increase the price of rice meals by Rs 5. It feels bad to charge more, but we also need to survive," said Chandan Nath, who runs a stall on Chowringhee Road.
Others are coping by cutting portions or trimming the menu. "We've raised prices by Rs 5-Rs 10, and have cut some items," said vendor Umakanta Shaoo.
Despite the challenges, vendors are trying hard to maintain food quality. Regular customers, while feeling the pinch, have shown understanding. "Given the rise in fuel and ingredient costs, vendors have no choice but to increase prices. They also need to survive," said Deep Dey from Garia. "Most vendors have increased prices by Rs 5-Rs 10, which is understandable," said Sambit Guha, a govt employee from Kamalgazi.