LPG Shortage Halts Mumbai’s Iconic Eateries

Mumbai’s legendary food scene has been hit hard by a severe LPG shortage, forcing iconic institutions to shut temporarily. Ashok Vada Pav in Prabhadevi, credited with popularizing the modern Vada Pav since 1966, has closed its doors for the first time in recent memory, disappointing hundreds of daily patrons. Other landmark eateries, including Shree Thaker Bhojanalay in Kalbadevi, have also suspended operations due to the gas crisis.

Ladu Samrat in Lalbaug has scaled back its offerings, serving only 30-40% of its usual menu while shutting down one of its kitchens and AC sections to conserve fuel. The shortage stems from escalating tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted LPG imports via the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy chokepoint.

Authorities are working to mitigate the crisis, and two LPG tankers have reached Indian shores this week, providing a potential relief for Mumbai’s gas distribution network. Restaurateurs remain hopeful that normal operations will resume soon, bringing Mumbai’s culinary landmarks back to life.

Pic courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright