New Delhi (India) March 10:In many Indian cities, a growing shortage of LPG cylinders is causing disruptions for restaurants and hotels, sparking concerns about a serious gas supply crisis. Hospitality organizations have reported that many eateries are struggling to obtain commercial LPG cylinders, leading some to temporarily close their doors.
Cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata are among the hardest hit, with local businesses sharing grim accounts of unreliable gas supplies in recent days. In response, the government has urged oil companies and refineries to increase LPG production to help restore the supply.

NRAI Sounds Alarm on Gas Supply Tensions

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), along with various hotel and restaurant associations from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Odisha, have raised alarms that without a steady supply of cooking gas, many establishments will be forced to shut down. 

Restaurant owners are already contemplating changes to their menus and may need to reduce the number of gas-intensive dishes they offer. Some are even considering switching to electric appliances to keep their kitchens running, though this transition could increase costs and limit certain cooking techniques that rely on gas. In areas where it’s available, some establishments are trying to use piped natural gas as an alternative.

Oil Imports from 40 Nations

However, government sources have reassured the public that there’s no need to panic. Authorities are actively working to meet the country's oil and energy demands. Recently, the government introduced a more diverse sourcing strategy, aiming to import oil from a broader range of countries to ensure a steady supply. Previously, India sourced oil and energy from 27 countries, but due to the ongoing situation in West Asia, that network has expanded to approximately 40.

India Better Prepared for Energy Shortage

Officials have emphasized that India is better prepared than many other nations, maintaining regular communication with various countries to ensure uninterrupted energy delivery. They are collaborating closely with global partners to prevent any disruptions in the supply chain.
While there have been concerns raised by certain associations about the LPG shortage, the government is actively reviewing these issues. They encourage the public to be cautious of misinformation circulating on social media regarding a potential crisis.