India Faces Restaurant Gas Crunch Amid Iran Conflict
India’s restaurants and hotels are warning of potential shutdowns as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies dwindle due to the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. Disruptions in Gulf shipping and rising energy costs have hit exports from major producers like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, constraining the country’s LPG imports, which cover two-thirds of domestic demand. Authorities have invoked emergency powers to boost local production and set up a panel to review industry supply requests.
Hospitality operators across cities such as Bengaluru and Chennai report dwindling gas stocks, forcing some to install induction stoves and conserve fuel. Chains including California Burrito and Udupi Food Hub have experienced delivery delays and rising cooking costs, with immediate payments required from vendors due to the scarcity. Industry bodies like the National Restaurant Association of India have warned of “catastrophic closures” if supplies do not stabilize soon.
With most restaurants relying on frequent cylinder replacement rather than stockpiling due to safety concerns, experts warn that kitchens could run out of gas within days to weeks. Prices of LPG and essential cooking ingredients like sunflower oil have surged, further straining operations in the hospitality sector already grappling with high demand and inflationary pressures.
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