Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, March 15: The ongoing LPG supply disruption is forcing fishermen in coastal Karnataka to revert to older cooking methods, as commercial cylinders remain in short supply.

The conflict in Middle Eastern countries has severely limited the availability of cylinders intended for commercial use. While the shortage initially impacted hotels, it has now spread to the deep-sea fishing sector, prompting a surge in demand for kerosene stoves.

Earlier, fishermen relied on kerosene stoves for on-board cooking, but these were sidelined once LPG cylinders became available.

“Earlier, we used kerosene stoves on boats. Once gas arrived, those stoves were pushed aside. Now they are back in active use,” said Karunakar S Saliyan, president of the Malpe Trawler Boat Association.

Demand for kerosene and diesel stoves has more than doubled in the market, with a five-litre stove now costing around Rs 6,000. Deep-sea fishing boats usually carry 8–10 fishermen and remain at sea for 10–12 days, making on-board cooking essential.

Delays in domestic cylinder supply in Uttara Kannada and Dakshina Kannada districts have worsened the situation, while some commercial gas is reportedly being sold at inflated rates.

Udupi district has approximately 1,700 deep-sea fishing boats and 200–300 outboard-engine gillnet boats. Uttara Kannada has around 1,150 deep-sea boats and 180 purse-seine boats, while Dakshina Kannada has about 1,508 deep-sea boats and 172 purse-seine vessels.

Due to local shortages, fishermen are sourcing stoves from Kerala via visiting boats, and some have travelled to Karwar and Kumta to procure stoves directly.

Emphasising the wider economic impact, Saliyan added, “Fishing contributes significantly to the national economy. Without timely supply of gas or alternative fuels, fishermen’s livelihoods suffer, which in turn affects the economy. The government must ensure that fishermen receive adequate gas and other fuel supplies promptly.”