Bengaluru South constituency MP Tejasvi Surya has expressed significant concerns regarding a potential shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) affecting hotels and restaurants in Bengaluru. In a recent communication to Hardeep Puri, the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Surya highlighted that ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia could lead to disruptions in the LPG supply chain across the city. This situation has reportedly already led to the temporary closure of several dining establishments.

Bangalore Hotel Association Voices Alarm Over Supply Consistency

Surya’s correspondence includes feedback from the Bangalore Hotel Association, which emphasized the critical need for continuous LPG supplies for various hospitality operations. The association suggested that restaurants heavily rely on commercial LPG for their kitchen needs, with limited immediate alternatives available. As many commercial kitchens do not have access to alternatives like piped natural gas (PNG) or electric cooking systems, any interruption in LPG delivery could adversely affect their operations and the workforce within the sector.

Government Responds to Crisis with Increased Production Orders

In light of these challenges, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has directed oil refineries to ramp up LPG production. The ministry has instructed that extra LPG output should primarily be allocated for domestic consumption. This decision follows mounting constraints on the global fuel supply chain caused by recent geopolitical events.

Measures Implemented to Protect Domestic Supply

The government’s priority has been to ensure energy security for households amid rising uncertainties in the global oil market. In announcing these measures, the Ministry stressed the importance of maintaining fuel supply to domestic users. Furthermore, a new 25-day inter-booking period was introduced for consumers. This measure aims to mitigate hoarding practices and tackle black market activities associated with LPG supplies, ensuring that the distribution remains effective.

Hospitality Sector Urges Assurance for Consistent Supply

In his letter, Tejasvi Surya acknowledged the association’s request for a guarantee that commercial establishments continue to receive uninterrupted supplies through the existing distribution systems. He noted that while the industry supports governmental efforts to maintain adequate LPG supplies for residential use, it is equally essential to protect the needs of commercial kitchens. A disruption could not only impact culinary operations but also employment and the quality of services provided to consumers.

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