A severe shortage of commercial LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) has sent shockwaves through the hotel and restaurant industry in major Indian cities. Metropolis hubs like Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai are grappling with a sudden supply crunch, leaving thousands of food outlets on the brink of closure. The crisis has escalated to a point where daily operations for nearly 5,000 establishments in Kolkata alone are severely hampered.

Over 5,000 Outlets Gasping for Supply In cities known for their vibrant culinary culture, the depletion of gas reserves is a major blow. Many restaurant owners have reported that their existing stocks will barely last another 24 to 48 hours. The delay in the delivery of commercial cylinders has forced some small-scale eateries to source fuel at exorbitant black-market rates, further straining their finances.

Economic Impact and Price Hikes Industry experts warn that if the disruption in the supply chain continues, it will inevitably lead to a hike in food prices. With rising operational costs, restaurants may pass on the burden to consumers, making dining out a costly affair. The National Restaurant Association is closely monitoring the situation and has urged the government and oil marketing companies to intervene immediately to restore the supply flow before the service industry grinds to a halt.