Post by : Shakul

A growing shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has forced nearly 20% of hotels and restaurants in Mumbai to shut down operations, according to the Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR). Industry representatives warned that if the gas supply situation does not improve soon, up to 50% of eateries across the city could temporarily close within the next two days.

Restaurant owners say the crisis has severely affected daily kitchen operations because most hotels, restaurants, and roadside eateries depend on 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders for cooking. With deliveries slowing or stopping entirely, many establishments have been forced to reduce menu items, shorten operating hours, or temporarily halt services.

Gas dealers in Mumbai reported that commercial LPG cylinder supply has been largely halted since the weekend, creating delays and uncertainty for businesses. While domestic LPG cylinders remain available, industry groups say the supply chain has prioritised household consumers, leaving restaurants struggling to secure fuel for their kitchens. Waiting times for LPG refills have also increased significantly in several parts of the city.

The disruption is believed to be linked to global energy supply pressures and geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have affected fuel shipments and supply chains. At the same time, new government measures aimed at ensuring adequate domestic LPG availability have also contributed to confusion among distributors and delays in commercial cylinder deliveries.

Meanwhile, the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has urged the central government to ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG cylinders, warning that any prolonged disruption could lead to widespread closures in the hospitality sector, which employs millions and serves millions of meals daily.

For now, Mumbai’s hospitality sector is closely monitoring the situation. Restaurant owners say their ability to stay open depends entirely on the LPG stock currently available, and if deliveries do not resume soon, more eateries across the city may be forced to suspend operations in the coming days.

#world news #Global News #India News #Business News