Mysuru: The ongoing global disruption in LPG supply due to the West Asia conflict has triggered a severe livelihood crisis in Mysuru, with thousands of workers—especially in the unorganised sector—losing their jobs.
The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has brought large sections of the food and beverages industry to a standstill, forcing closures, downsizing, and widespread unemployment.
Street vendors bear the brunt
According to Bhaskar Urs, vice-president (South) of the National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI), the impact has been particularly severe among roadside vendors.
“In Mysuru alone, around 4,000 street food vendors and an equal number of workers have lost their livelihoods. Nearly 8,000 people are now jobless as there are no LPG cylinders available to run food carts,” he said.
Initially, vendors were supplied with smaller 5 kg cylinders as a temporary measure, but even that supply has now stopped, leaving hundreds of families without income.
Hotels cut operations and staff
The crisis has also significantly impacted the hotel industry. With limited or no access to LPG, many establishments have either shut down temporarily or are operating with restricted menus.
C Narayana Gowda, president of the Mysuru Hotel Owners’ Association, said the sector is witnessing growing job losses.
“Nearly 3,000 employees working in various sections of hotels have already lost their jobs. Many hotels have reduced services due to the shortage. If the situation continues, more layoffs are inevitable,” he warned.
The reduction in menu offerings and operating hours has also affected customer footfall, further compounding financial stress on businesses.
Industrial units also affected
The impact of the LPG shortage is not limited to the food sector. Industrial units, particularly those dependent on gas for operations, are also facing disruptions.
Mysore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) reported job losses across several small and medium enterprises, especially in welding and wire manufacturing units.
According to KB Lingaraju, around 1,600 jobs have been lost in such units across the district.
“In Hebbal Industrial Area alone, there are 10 to 12 welding units, while across the district there are around 100 to 120 units. Many have either reduced operations or shut down temporarily due to lack of LPG,” he said.
Supply disruption linked to global crisis
The LPG shortage has been linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has disrupted global energy supply chains. The situation has affected the availability and distribution of LPG across several parts of India, including Karnataka.
With supply routes impacted and imports facing delays, local distribution networks have struggled to meet demand, particularly for commercial users such as hotels and small businesses.
Growing concern over livelihoods
The crisis has raised serious concerns about the vulnerability of workers in the unorganised sector, who often lack social security and alternative income sources.
Street vendors, daily wage workers, and small business employees are among the worst affected, with many families facing financial distress due to sudden loss of income.
Industry bodies and associations have urged the government to take immediate steps to restore LPG supply and provide relief measures to affected sectors.
Conclusion
The LPG shortage in Mysuru has evolved into a full-blown livelihood crisis, affecting thousands of workers across food, hospitality, and industrial sectors. Unless supply stabilises soon, the situation could worsen, leading to deeper economic and social consequences for the region.