Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday announced that it will temporarily allow the use of charcoal chullahs (traditional stoves) in the city, following a shortage of cooking gas caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
BMC Mayor Sulochana Das said the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its 12th day, disrupting LPG supplies and affecting small businesses such as restaurants, tea shops, and tiffin services.
“Earlier this year, on January 5, 2026, we had banned hostels and dhabas from using chullahs to curb air pollution and had imposed fines on violators. However, due to the current LPG shortage, we will allow their use temporarily to support small business owners,” Mayor Das said.
She added that the temporary relaxation will be in effect only for the duration of the crisis, after which the earlier restrictions on chullahs will be reinstated.
A crucial meeting is scheduled today to discuss the matter further and consider requests from affected business owners.
The decision comes as eateries across the city face difficulties in maintaining operations due to LPG scarcity, highlighting how international conflicts can impact local businesses.
