The Bangalore Hotels Association has announced that commercial LPG cylinder supply has been stopped, triggering a major crisis for the city’s hotel industry.
In a notice issued on Monday, the association said the disruption could significantly affect common citizens, senior citizens, students and medical professionals who depend on hotels and eateries for their daily meals.
Hotels to shut from tomorrow
Due to the shortage of cooking gas, hotels across Bengaluru have decided to remain closed starting tomorrow.
Hoteliers said the sudden halt in supply has left them with no alternative to continue operations.
The association also pointed out that oil companies had earlier assured the sector that there would be no disruption in LPG supply for up to 70 days.
However, the unexpected stoppage has created serious operational difficulties for restaurants and hotels.
Industry seeks urgent government intervention
The association has appealed to the Union government for immediate intervention.
Hoteliers have urged concerned ministers to restore the supply of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders and support the hospitality sector during the crisis.
Industry representatives warned that prolonged disruption could affect thousands of workers employed in the hotel and restaurant sector.
Middle East conflict impacting LPG supply
The shortage comes amid disruptions in global energy markets caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
Government sources said the crisis has affected LPG supply chains due to instability in the Middle East.
To address the shortage, authorities have reportedly asked domestic refineries to increase LPG production and prioritise household LPG supply.
Alternative suppliers approach India
Officials also said several countries, including Algeria, Australia, Canada, Norway and the United Arab Emirates, have offered to supply LPG to India.
Meanwhile, domestic LPG prices were recently increased by ₹60 per cylinder, marking the second price hike in less than a year.
Officials clarified that petrol and diesel prices will not be increased for now, noting that the government had reduced central excise duties on fuel in previous years.
They also said around 70 percent of India’s crude oil imports come from sources outside the Strait of Hormuz, reducing the immediate risk of supply disruptions.
Authorities added that comments by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian suggesting that the Strait of Hormuz may only be closed to the US, Israel and Europe were seen as a reassuring development.