Restaurants across Mangaluru may be forced to shut operations within days as the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders—linked to disruptions in global energy supply caused by the ongoing conflict in Middle East—continues to worsen.
Industry representatives say the hospitality sector is under severe pressure as LPG remains the primary fuel for commercial kitchens, and alternatives such as steam-based systems cannot fully replace it.
Restaurant owners warn of shutdown
According to Kudpi Jagadish Shenoy, many restaurant owners have decided they may have to shut their establishments if LPG cylinders are not refilled within the next two to three days.
“It is not possible to run restaurants without LPG. Using only steam or other alternatives is not a practical solution,” Shenoy said.
He explained that the disruption in supply has already begun affecting daily operations across the city’s eateries, putting thousands of jobs in the hospitality sector at risk.
Price hike adds to the pressure
Restaurant owners are also grappling with the recent increase in the refill price of commercial LPG cylinders, which has reportedly gone up by around ₹115.
Shenoy clarified that the industry does not oppose reasonable price revisions but emphasised that the product must be available in the market.
“After increasing the price, supply should be ensured. How can we run our business without the product?” he asked.
Industry fears impact on consumers
Manohar Shetty said the combined impact of rising LPG prices and limited supply could create a ripple effect across the hospitality industry and for customers.
“It is a major problem for us. For now, we have no option but to wait and hope that the situation improves soon,” Shetty said.
Restaurant operators say increasing menu prices to offset the rising costs is also difficult, as it could discourage customers during an already challenging period.
Political intervention sought
Meanwhile, Capt Brijesh Chowta has written to Hardeep Singh Puri urging the central government to address the LPG supply disruptions affecting restaurants and catering businesses.
In his letter, Chowta highlighted concerns raised by entrepreneurs from Dakshina Kannada, many of whom operate restaurants not only in coastal Karnataka but also in cities such as Bengaluru and Mumbai.
He urged the Union government to review the supply situation and ensure uninterrupted availability of commercial LPG cylinders, warning that prolonged shortages could severely affect livelihoods dependent on the hospitality sector.
Activist Muneer Katipalla also cautioned that the public has already begun feeling the economic impact of the crisis.
“If the situation continues, the effects will only intensify,” he said.