Bhatkal: Amid a growing shortage of LPG cylinders and rising prices across Karnataka, people are increasingly turning to traditional fuels such as firewood. Uttara Kannada district has witnessed a sharp rise in demand, leaving several depots depleted.

For the past three years, restrictions on firewood cutting meant only existing stock was available for sale. With LPG supply now under strain, dependence on firewood has increased significantly.

Officials said demand in March has risen by nearly 35 percent compared to previous years. While many depots across the district have run out of stock, others are operating with limited reserves.

In the Honnavar subdivision, 8 of the 28 public depots have been fully exhausted, with the remaining running low on supplies. To address the shortage, authorities have permitted the felling of around 3.61 lakh acacia trees, including nearly 80,000 in Bhatkal.

Honnavar Sub-Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Yogesh P.K. told SahilOnline that the Central Government has approved tree felling across about 1,700 hectares of forest land, and the process is currently underway. The subdivision covers Honnavar, Bhatkal and Kumta taluks.

He added that the region has 30 depots in total, of which two larger depots are not open for public distribution, while the remaining 28 smaller depots cater to local demand.

The situation is not limited to Uttara Kannada. Reports from Udupi, Mangaluru, Shivamogga and Bengaluru indicate disruptions in LPG availability, affecting both households and the hospitality sector.

A Bhatkal-based tourist told SahilOnline that during a recent visit to Madikeri in Kodagu district, several hotels were unable to serve meals due to the lack of LPG cylinders. Operators had reportedly suspended cooking, offering only beverages and light snacks.

The state government, however, maintains that LPG supplies remain adequate and denies any shortage. Ground reports from multiple districts, however, suggest otherwise.

Experts warn that prolonged supply disruptions could increase reliance on firewood, raising environmental concerns and adding to the burden on consumers over time.