Severe shortage and price surge of commercial LPG cylinders push hotels in Bengaluru, Hubballi, Mysuru and Belagavi toward closure
Bengaluru: A severe shortage of commercial LPG cylinders across Karnataka has pushed the hotel industry in several major cities into a deep crisis, with many establishments warning that they may be forced to shut down if the supply disruption continues.
Hotel owners in cities including Bengaluru, Hubballi, Mysuru, and Belagavi say the shortage has already begun to affect daily operations, forcing them to limit food preparation and reduce staff.
Industry representatives warn that thousands of workers dependent on hotels for their livelihood could lose their jobs if the situation is not resolved immediately.
Hotels Cutting Menu to Save Gas
With LPG cylinders becoming scarce, several hotels have begun cutting down on gas-intensive dishes, including popular breakfast items such as puri and dosa, which require continuous high heat for cooking.
To conserve the limited gas available, restaurants are now preparing only a few essential food items and limited snacks.
Many establishments say they are trying to continue operations only until their remaining LPG stock lasts, after which closures may become inevitable.
Workers Fear Losing Livelihood
The crisis is not only affecting hotel owners but also thousands of workers employed in kitchens, service sections and food delivery operations.
Several workers expressed deep concern over the possibility of job losses if hotels shut down.
“What will happen to our families if the hotels close?” workers asked, highlighting the growing anxiety among employees who rely on the hospitality sector for daily income.
Some small eateries have already closed operations, while larger hotels are reportedly preparing contingency plans to operate for a limited period.
Mysuru Hoteliers Criticise Delay in Government Response
The LPG shortage is also intensifying in Mysuru, where hotel owners say the crisis is worsening day by day.
Hoteliers have publicly criticised what they describe as delays in government action to address the issue.
“If the cylinder problem cannot be resolved, the government itself should take over and run these hotels,” said hotelier Shwetha Madappady, expressing frustration over the lack of immediate relief.
Industry members say the sector was already struggling due to rising prices of essential food commodities, and the LPG shortage has further deepened the crisis.
They warned that millions of people across the state depend directly or indirectly on the hotel industry, making the situation extremely serious.
Sharp Price Rise Adds to Crisis
Apart from the shortage, a sharp increase in the price of commercial LPG cylinders has added to the financial burden on hotel owners.
In Belagavi, hotel operators reported that the price of a commercial cylinder has increased by Rs. 500 to Rs. 600 within just three days.
A cylinder that was previously available for around ₹1,600 is now reportedly costing nearly Rs. 2,200, placing additional pressure on businesses already struggling with supply shortages.
Hoteliers say that even after offering higher prices, cylinders are still unavailable in the market, worsening the crisis.
Industry Warns of Collapse Without Immediate Action
Hotel associations across Karnataka have urged authorities to intervene immediately and ensure an adequate supply of commercial LPG cylinders to the hospitality sector.
Industry stakeholders warn that if the crisis continues, large parts of the hotel sector could face shutdowns, leading to significant economic losses and widespread unemployment.
They say urgent government action is necessary to stabilise LPG supply chains and prevent the collapse of the hospitality industry across the state.
