Surat is facing a crisis as migrant workers in the textile sector grapple with an ongoing shortage of commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). With costs for small cylinders skyrocketing, many workers are struggling to afford meals.
To combat this situation and prevent a mass exodus back to their hometowns, local textile associations and mill owners have launched a mega community kitchen in Pandesara. This initiative serves thousands of meals daily for just ₹50 each, providing crucial support for those affected.
In areas like Pandesara, Sachin, Bhestan, Kadodara, and Palsana, lakhs of workers live without proper gas connections, relying on expensive small cylinders that are now hard to refill due to government restrictions on commercial LPG supply. The cost of refilling has shot up from around ₹80 per kg to between ₹500 and ₹700 for a small bottle.
“LPG hasn’t been available for the last five to six days,” said Vikas Kumar Sharma, a worker who is feeling the pinch of rising prices. Many workers were contemplating leaving until they found out about the new kitchen.
The kitchen prepares food for 4,000 to 5,000 people each day. While approximately 1,000 workers dine there directly, others receive packed meals delivered straight to factories and accommodations. Long lines form outside the facility every morning as staff ensure orderly distribution.
“If this food facility hadn’t been started,” Saroj Pandey explained, “we would’ve had no choice but to return home.” Organizers emphasize maintaining strict hygiene standards while serving pure vegetarian meals designed to keep health risks low among the workforce.
As part of their response strategy, some employers have begun offering direct meal services or even arranging firewood so employees can cook without LPG. In these challenging times, community support is proving essential for Surat’s textile industry.