Bhubaneswar, March 24 -- Aahaar centres in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are witnessing a sharp surge in demand amid an ongoing LPG shortage, with food stocks being exhausted within an hour of opening, raising concerns over accessibility for the needy.

The shortage of LPG cylinders, coupled with rising food prices at hotels and eateries, has forced hundreds of people, including students and low-income groups, to rely on Aahaar centres for affordable meals. Students staying in hostels and mess facilities have been particularly affected, as the 5 kg LPG cylinders they depend on are not being refilled, leaving them unable to cook.

The crisis has also impacted the hospitality sector, with several hotels reportedly shutting down due to a shortage ...