LPG Shortage: Business of Street Vendors Severely Hit in Several Cities, Restaurants Hike Food Menu Prices

New Delhi: In wake of the conflict in West Asia that has impacted global LPG supply chains, reports continue to come in from several cities in India about price hikes in restaurants and street vendors sustaining losses owing shortage of LPG.

In Andhra Pradesh’s Vijayawada, food stalls have raised menu tariffs to offset rising expenses in wake of LPG shortage. With regular supply remaining erratic, many establishments are procuring cylinders from the black market at inflated rates, adding to their financial burden, reported Times of India.

TOI reported that in Bhopal, nearly 40% business involving street vendors has been hit, with the LPG shortage forcing many street vendors to cut back operations or stop entirely after reserves were exhausted in a short period.

Similarly, according to Bengaluru Hotels' Association, on average, hotels have suffered 25% to 30% losses in the city.

"LPG shortage has badly hit our operations as we still continue with limited supply. But it makes me surprised and happy to see how our eateries have found alternatives to cook food and ensured that their kitchens keep running. Most of the big hotels and restaurants are using firewood to cook, and others are managing with limited stock,” Subramanya Holla, president of the association told TOI.

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday (March 15) urged Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri to quickly take the steps he has promised to ensure there is no disruption in LPG supply.

The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.