A growing shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has begun disrupting Bengaluru’s food ecosystem, forcing restaurants across malls and key locations to shut kitchens or operate with limited menus.
Restaurants hit as gas supply drops
The crisis, linked to global supply disruptions amid tensions in West Asia, has significantly reduced the availability of commercial LPG cylinders used by hotels and eateries. Since March 9, traders and hotel associations report severe supply constraints.
With most restaurants maintaining stock for only one or two days, many establishments have been left with no option but to suspend operations once reserves ran out.
Malls witness unusual slowdown
Popular malls such as Mantri Mall and Orion Mall, usually bustling with visitors, are seeing a noticeable dip in activity. Food courts in these malls have been particularly affected, with several outlets shutting down their kitchens.
Restaurants like Rajdhani and Shiv Sagar have temporarily closed, while others are offering only limited items such as snacks and beverages. At Orion Mall, outlets including Empire and Domino’s have also halted operations due to the shortage.
Visitors expecting a typical dining experience are now finding fewer options, impacting footfall and overall mall activity.
Iconic eateries forced to adapt
The crisis has extended beyond malls to some of Bengaluru’s most iconic food establishments. Vidyarthi Bhavan in Gandhi Bazaar has altered its timings due to the shortage.
The eatery, known for its masala dosa, has delayed its afternoon reopening, now starting service only at 4:30 pm. Hotel owners say large establishments require multiple cylinders daily, making operations unsustainable without regular supply.
Limited alternatives, rising costs
While some restaurants are attempting to switch to electric cooking, industry representatives say such solutions are not practical for large-scale operations.
Adding to the burden, reports indicate that commercial LPG cylinders are being sold in the black market at prices exceeding ₹6,000, significantly increasing operational costs.
Wider impact on daily life
The shortage is affecting not just restaurants but also roadside eateries, hospital canteens and student dining facilities, many of which depend entirely on commercial LPG.
The Bengaluru Hotels Association has urged authorities to intervene and restore supply. If the situation persists, industry leaders warn that more establishments may be forced to shut temporarily, impacting livelihoods and daily food access across the city.