The repercussions of the ongoing tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran are being felt across Punjab. In Jalandhar, difficulties regarding the supply of both domestic and commercial gas cylinders have slowed down the pace of the food industry. *Dhabas* (roadside eateries), street vendors, and restaurant owners are being forced to resort to more expensive alternatives, an impact of which is now clearly visible in food prices. Common people are having to pay higher prices than before for tea, *roti* (flatbread), and other food items. Simply put, the price of everything—from a cup of tea to a *roti* cooked on a griddle—has gone up.
Traders state that they are not receiving gas supplies on time; consequently, out of necessity, they are compelled to use diesel-fired stoves, electric burners, and other alternatives. Since these alternatives entail higher operational costs, they have been forced to hike their prices. However, the concerned government departments and agencies continue to deny any shortage of gas, leaving the situation shrouded in confusion. Small shopkeepers and confectioners (*Halwais*) have been particularly hard hit by this situation, suffering financial losses even during the recent Navratri festival season.
According to local vendors, there has been a sharp surge in the prices of food items. Dishes that were previously affordable have seen their prices nearly double. Even staple items like *roti* and tea have become more expensive. For instance, a *Dosa* that previously cost ₹80 is now priced at ₹100, while a cup of tea that used to cost ₹10 is now selling for ₹20. Meanwhile, several restaurant owners in areas like Model Town and Rama Mandi report that even when they do manage to procure a gas cylinder, it does not last for very long, forcing them to repeatedly rely on alternative energy sources. They note that a single cylinder typically lasts them only two to three days. Consequently, they are compelled to utilize alternatives such as diesel-fired stoves or electric burners.
Amidst all this, rumors circulating regarding petrol and diesel supplies have also created a stir across the city. People flocked to petrol pumps in large numbers, leading to temporary stockouts in some locations. However, the situation returned to normal once supplies were restored. Pump operators state that the actual cause was not a shortage of fuel, but rather a sudden surge in demand coupled with minor delays in supply. On the other hand, restaurant owners report a decline in customer footfall. People are avoiding dining out, which has adversely impacted business operations. In many places, establishments are managing to keep things running by relying on alternative methods, such as using tandoors. Meanwhile, confectioners are facing difficulties in fulfilling orders due to the gas shortage, resulting in mounting financial losses. Ravi and Mukesh, owners of *dhabas* (roadside eateries) in Transport Nagar and Focal Point, state that this situation has become a major challenge for them; people are simply no longer stepping out to eat. Confectioners further add that, amidst this crisis, they have been compelled to turn down numerous catering assignments.
