The ongoing LPG cylinder shortage in West Bengal has severely impacted the ‘Maa’ Canteens, which provide subsidized meals to the underprivileged. With commercial cylinders unavailable, many municipal canteens have been forced to cut down their daily menu and return to the traditional way of cooking with firewood.

Staff members have expressed deep concern as they struggle with the smoke and slow cooking process on wood stoves. “We are trying our best to keep the service alive, but without gas, it is becoming impossible. Even the wood supply is limited,” said a worker. If the supply is not restored immediately, these canteens—a lifeline for many—might have to shut down indefinitely.