India, March 25 -- A sharp rise in living expenses and acute LPG shortage are forcing hundreds of students and competitive exam aspirants to leave Pune and return to their hometowns.

A key education hub, areas such as Sadashiv Peth, Narayan Peth, Navi Peth and Karvenagar are witnessing a noticeable drop in student presence, especially among those preparing for civil services and other competitive exams.

The LPG shortage has severely disrupted mess services, breakfast centres and small eateries. Many have either shut down or scaled back operations, while others have raised prices citing higher cylinder costs, erratic supply and added transportation or gas surcharges.

Students said their monthly expenses have nearly doubled-from around R...