Shimla, March 11 — The Federation of Himachal Hotels and Restaurant Association (FOHHRA) has urged the central government to intervene and ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG cylinders, warning that shortages could disrupt hotel and restaurant operations across Himachal Pradesh.
In a letter to Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, FOHHRA president Gajender Thakur raised concerns about the irregular availability of commercial cooking gas in the market. The association said several hotels and eateries have already begun experiencing supply constraints in recent days.
Concerns Over Supply Disruption
The hospitality industry in Himachal Pradesh depends heavily on commercial LPG cylinders for daily operations such as food preparation in hotels, restaurants, dhabas and catering establishments. According to the association, any prolonged disruption in gas supply could affect services offered to tourists and local residents alike.
A Shimla-based gas agency operator told reporters that some companies have reportedly slowed or stopped bottling commercial cylinders, which could lead to a widening gap between supply and demand in the coming days.
FOHHRA warned that smaller hotels and mid-sized establishments are particularly vulnerable, as many lack alternative energy sources to run kitchens.
Impact of West Asia Crisis
The concerns come amid global supply disruptions triggered by geopolitical tensions in West Asia. India relies heavily on LPG imports from Gulf countries, and disruptions in shipping routes and energy markets have pushed authorities to prioritize domestic supply.
The government has recently adjusted the priority allocation of domestically produced natural gas to safeguard household cooking fuel and other essential sectors. Industry representatives say these changes may have indirectly tightened commercial LPG availability for hospitality businesses.
Across India, hotel and restaurant associations have raised similar concerns about reduced supply of commercial cooking gas cylinders and have sought government clarification and intervention.
Tourism Sector at Stake
Himachal Pradesh, one of India’s leading tourism destinations, hosts thousands of hotels and restaurants that cater to visitors throughout the year. Industry representatives say the hospitality sector generates significant employment and supports the state’s tourism-driven economy.
“If the shortage continues, hotels and restaurants may face operational disruptions and rising costs,” Thakur said, urging authorities to stabilize the supply chain and ensure adequate allocation of commercial LPG cylinders.
Industry observers note that prolonged supply constraints could increase operational expenses for hospitality businesses and affect services during peak tourist seasons.
The association has requested the Union government to take timely measures to ensure the hospitality sector receives sufficient cooking gas so that hotel operations and tourism services continue without interruption.
