A nationwide shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, reportedly triggered by escalating tensions in West Asia, has left hotels and eateries struggling to maintain operations. Several establishments warned they may be forced to shut down if supplies are not restored soon.

Dealers associated with major oil companies such as Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited have reportedly cut back supplies or declined urgent requests for commercial LPG cylinders weighing between 19 kg and 47.5 kg.

Hotels warn of possible shutdowns

Industry representatives say the situation has reached a critical point. According to the Chennai Hotels Association, the city alone has more than 10,000 hotels and eateries that depend on uninterrupted LPG supplies for daily operations.

Association president M. Ravi said many establishments may only be able to operate until midnight if the supply crisis continues.

“Hotels function round the clock and rely on continuous LPG supply. Without immediate intervention, many may be forced to shut,” he said.

Small eateries typically consume three to five 19-kg cylinders daily, while mid-sized restaurants require five to ten cylinders ranging from 21 kg to 47.5 kg. Larger three-star and five-star establishments may use around 20 cylinders per day.

Restaurants cut services and revise menus

Several popular restaurant chains have already begun scaling down operations. Restaurants under the Sangeetha Veg chain, for example, have reduced operating hours and are limiting menu options.

Adyar Ananda Bhavan has also reduced the use of tandoor ovens and certain North Indian dishes to conserve LPG.

To cope with the shortage, some establishments are experimenting with electric cooking equipment for dishes such as rice and idlis. However, hotel owners say this cannot fully replace gas-based cooking.

The crisis has also pushed up costs, with commercial LPG cylinder prices reportedly rising by ₹35 per kilogram in recent days.

Industry seeks government intervention

Hotel associations have appealed for urgent government intervention. Industry representatives have contacted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin seeking immediate steps to restore regular supply.

The Central Government has reportedly invoked the Essential Commodities Act to regulate LPG supply amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Hotel owners warn that the situation could become worse than the disruptions experienced during the Covid-19 lockdowns if the shortage persists.