Many Bangaloreans opined that the Union Government’s decision to restrict six LPG cylinders per household in a year at subsidised rates would burn a hole in their pockets.
P V Nagamani, a homemaker in Avalahalli says, “One cylinder for my family lasts only 35 days. If the government comes out with such an order, we have no option but to use electric stoves. But, if everyone starts using electric stoves, can BESCOM bear the additional burden? The government should come up with better alternatives.”
“After this order comes into force, we have to go back to our kerosene stoves for cooking. A litre of kerosene now costs Rs 40 in the black market. We do not have a ration card to buy kerosene. Using kerosene stoves can create more pollution and burn a big hole in our pockets,” said Yamini Devaraj, another homemaker.
Uma Shankar, a resident of Annasandrapalya says, “Ours is a joint family of 14 people. How can a cylinder last two months? The government is thinking from the other end. They should also think how this restriction could affect joint families.”
Ameena-Bi, a resident of Islampur in HAL II Stage says, “A cylinder lasts only for about 21 days in my house. We are part of a joint family. We cannot afford to buy any additional cylinders by paying over Rs 700. Now, we have no other option, but to resort to agitation.”