Bhubaneswar, Mar 11: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday announced that it will temporarily allow the use of charcoal chullahs (traditional cooking stoves) in the city due to a shortage of LPG supplies linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Mayor Sulochana Das said the continuing war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has now entered its 12th day, causing disruptions in global fuel supply chains. The resulting LPG shortage has affected several small businesses in Bhubaneswar, particularly restaurants, tea stalls, hostels, and roadside eateries that depend heavily on cooking gas for daily operations.

Mayor Das recalled that on January 5, 2026, the civic body had imposed a ban on the use of charcoal chullahs in hostels and dhabas as part of efforts to reduce air pollution in the city. Violators were also subject to fines under the earlier order.

However, in view of the current LPG scarcity, the civic body has decided to grant temporary relaxation to support small business owners struggling to continue their services.

She clarified that the permission will remain in force only for the duration of the crisis. Once the LPG supply stabilises, the earlier restrictions on chullah use will be reinstated. A meeting is scheduled today to review the situation and discuss further measures.

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