LPG Shortage Hits Hotels in Major Indian Cities; Hotels Warn of Shutdown

Bengaluru: Hotels in several parts of India, including those in metro cities like Bengaluru, and Mumbai are preparing to shut down operations due to a shortage of LPG cooking gas cylinders. The Bengaluru Hotel Association said the crisis could severely affect thousands of people who rely on hotels for daily meals and demanded that the shortage be resolved immediately.

According to the association, the energy crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, along with the recent hike in LPG prices, has severely impacted the hospitality sector. The association alleged that LPG supplies were stopped without prior notice, making it impossible for many establishments to continue operations.

Hotel associations in other cities are also preparing similar protests. Establishments in Chennai and Mumbai have reportedly decided to shut down soon if the supply of cooking gas is not restored. Industry representatives warn that if the shortage continues, hotels may have to remain closed for an extended period.

The sudden shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has disrupted the operations of restaurants and hotels in several cities across India. With cooking gas supplies running low, many establishments have been forced to reduce menu items and limit their operating hours.

Hotel and restaurant operators say that the supply of LPG for commercial use has slowed significantly in major urban centres. In Mumbai and other cities, the supply of commercial cylinders has reportedly been irregular for the past two days, creating operational difficulties for the industry.

Due to the shortage, several hotels have started rationing the use of cooking gas, prioritising essential food items while temporarily suspending some dishes that require longer cooking times. Industry representatives warn that if the supply situation does not improve quickly, more restaurants and hotels may have to further restrict services or temporarily shut down operations.

The shortage comes at a time when the ongoing West Asian conflict has disrupted fuel movement and energy supplies. Amid these concerns, the central government also informed that the country is facing a cooking gas supply crisis, adding to the uncertainty in the hospitality sector.