Hyderabad sees surge in induction stove demand amid middle east crisis
Demand for induction stoves is rising sharply in Hyderabad as households seek alternatives to gas stoves amid the prolonged Middle East crisis. Retail stores and online platforms are struggling to meet demand, while manufacturers increase production and prices begin to climb.
Hyderabad: As the Middle-East crisis prolongs, the familiar blue flame in the Indian kitchens is gradually being replaced by the quiet hum of the electric induction stoves. Major urban centres, including Hyderabad, are witnessing a shift from gas stoves to induction cooktops, with retailers and e-commerce struggling to keep pace with the surge in demand.
At present, physical electronic retail outlets in Secunderabad and Abids are witnessing a rush of customers, desperate to buy induction cookers. However, availability is limited, as most of the electronic retailers rarely maintain large stocks of such appliances, as the traditional gas stove has long been the primary choice of Indians households.
“Induction stoves are out of stock in most quick commerce platforms. At present, I have a backup gas cylinder, and I am not facing any shortage. However, there is a definite need for back-up,” says B Bharathi, a housewife from Dammaiguda.
According to multiple reports, online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart are reporting a major spike in demand nationwide. Major manufacturers, including TTK Prestige and Stovekraft (Pigeon), are reported to be operating at near-maximum production capacity. Prices have already begun to climb up, with some models retailing for Rs 100 to Rs 300 more than they did just seven days ago.
The sudden scramble for an induction stove has become reminiscent of the early days of Covid-19 pandemic.
“Just like Covid pandemic, when suddenly everyone needed masks and sanitizers, it feels like we are in an indication cooktop era. From shops to online stores, everyone is suddenly hunting for induction stoves like it’s the new survival kit,” Arvind Kumar, a local resident from Sindhi Colony, Secunderabad.
