A scarcity of commercial LPG cylinders, stemming from global oil and gas supply disruptions in West Asia, is impacting roadside eateries and small restaurants in Kolkata. This shortage has led to price hikes in food items and concerns about potential closures. Alongside the surge in domestic cooking gas prices, restrictions on commercial LPG supply have been imposed, prioritizing essential institutions like schools and hospitals.
The shortage is particularly affecting small roadside eateries and food establishments in the city, with some temporarily shutting down due to the unavailability of commercial LPG cylinders. Others are raising food prices to manage escalating costs. Many of these establishments are contemplating a shift back to traditional coal or charcoal stoves amidst uncertainties in the gas supply.
Notable food hubs like Dacres Lane and eateries in areas such as Park Circus are experiencing similar challenges. Restaurant owners in commercial zones like Park Street and Esplanade are also anxious about the situation. Bubai Pandit, manager of Chitta Da’s shop at Dacres Lane, expressed concerns about a potential business shutdown if the shortage persists, citing escalating gas prices and dwindling supply.
The impact extends to Sealdah, a busy railway station in Kolkata, where small “rice hotels” catering to workers and commuters are feeling the pinch. Rising prices of essential goods coupled with the gas shortage are compounding costs for these establishments. The current price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder stands at nearly Rs 2,000, directly impacting food costs in hotels and restaurants.
Restaurant operators are alarmed by the worsening situation, as distributors struggle to meet demand. Many fear a deepening crisis if supplies do not normalize soon. A Dalhousie Square eatery owner highlighted the tough choices imposed by the price hike, mentioning the need to either raise food prices or reduce portion sizes to stay afloat.
Concerns over a potential shortage have triggered long queues at LPG distribution centers, with consumers rushing to update their KYC details to avoid disruptions in accessing cooking gas cylinders.
