Concerns over the availability of LPG cylinders and rising cooking gas prices have prompted many households in Balasore in Odisha to shift towards electric cooking appliances. Electronics stores across the city have reported a sharp increase in demand for induction cooktops as residents look for alternatives amid uncertainty in LPG supply.
Shop owners said several outlets witnessed heavy footfall on Thursday, with customers lining up to purchase electric stoves to manage their daily cooking needs. The sudden surge in demand reflects growing anxiety among consumers regarding the timely availability of cooking gas cylinders.
Growing Shift Towards Electric Cooking
Traders in Balasore said demand for induction cooktops and other electric cooking appliances has increased significantly over the past two days. Many households are opting for induction stoves as a temporary solution due to irregular LPG supply.
Retailers explained that customers are increasingly exploring electric cooking options as they provide a convenient alternative when LPG cylinders are difficult to obtain.
According to shop owners, people who traditionally relied on gas stoves are now purchasing induction cooktops as a backup to ensure uninterrupted cooking at home.
Traders Face Stock Shortages
With the sudden spike in demand, several electronics dealers said they are struggling to maintain adequate stock levels. Some models of induction cooktops have already started running out in local markets due to the rush of buyers.
One trader said business had improved sharply in the last two days because of the LPG shortage. However, he also noted that replenishing stocks quickly has become challenging due to the unexpectedly high demand.
Consumers Look for Reliable Alternatives
Customers visiting electronics stores said they were compelled to search for reliable alternatives as uncertainty around LPG cylinder availability continues.
One consumer said households are increasingly relying on electric cooking appliances because the supply of LPG cylinders has become unpredictable. The shift to induction stoves, they added, provides at least a temporary solution for daily cooking requirements.
Traders believe that if the LPG supply situation does not improve soon, the demand for electric cooking appliances in Balasore may continue to rise in the coming days.
