The shortage of LPG cylinders continues to disrupt hotel operations in Ernakulam, even as the vacation season has begun and travel demand is on the rise.

Industry representatives say they are missing out on one of the most lucrative periods of the year. They also warn that if the crisis persists, it could lead to a rise in LPG prices and, eventually, an increase in the cost of commodities.

According to restaurateurs and office-bearers of the Kerala Hotels and Restaurants Association (KHRA), the industry continues to struggle despite government intervention to increase non-domestic LPG allocation. Many restaurants remain shut, while only a few have managed to reopen. Without an adequate supply of gas, a large number of establishments are still unable to function, they said.

KHRA State president G. Jayapal says that the crisis is far from over. “Several restaurants have opened up, but the distribution of LPG cylinders is not uniform. As such, many restaurants continue to remain shut. Apart from the LPG shortage, they are also having trouble retaining the staff. Most of these guest workers returned to their native states to take part in the elections, while others left when the crisis began,” said Mr. Jayapal, pointing out that the industry hasn’t recovered from the crisis. He added that if the situation persists, it could lead to an increase in gas prices and, eventually, a rise in the cost of all commodities.

Out of more than 5,000 establishments registered within Kochi, nearly half were forced to shut down due to LPG shortage. “Around 10% of the restaurants registered with us remain closed. This is a highly lucrative period due to the vacation season, and they are consequently losing significant revenue,” he added.

He cited a recent incident where a group comprising 60 people contacted him in distress after being unable to find open restaurants. “ If restaurants do not receive an adequate supply of gas cylinders to operate, they have no option but to shut down,” he added.

K.B. Sasi, a restaurant owner in Perumbavoor who had to shut one of his hotels, adds that several restaurants in the region continue to remain shut and that the crisis has hit the region badly. “One will have to walk about a kilometre to find an open restaurant here. Most of the time, people struggle to find a place to have a meal or tea,” said Mr. Sasi, who is the Perumbavoor unit president of KHRA.

He adds that unless a daily requirement of four to five cylinders is met, there is no way to open the restaurants. “Most importantly, if the crisis continues, restaurants may even start increasing the prices by two to three rupees, and this could add additional burden on the public,” he said.

Meanwhile, an official of the Ernakulam district supply office said there was no shortage and that sufficient stock was available for distribution. The official explained that any delays were likely due to the recent election. “Those who are not receiving cylinders may not have a valid consumer number. Agencies are currently not supplying gas without this documentation. We have adequate stock,” the official said.