LPG Shortage Pushes Vasai–Virar Hotel Industry Into Crisis

A shortage of LPG cylinders has pushed the hotel industry in Vasai–Virar into a major crisis. The Vasai–Virar city area has around 1,500 hotels, including nearly 300 bar-restaurants. However, due to the complete halt in the supply of commercial gas cylinders over the past week, about 30% of hotels have already shut down. Hotel owners fear that this number could rise to 60% within the next two days if the situation does not improve.

According to hotel operators, cooking without gas is nearly impossible, forcing many businesses to temporarily suspend operations. Vihang Mhatre, secretary of the local hotel association, stated that if at least 50% of the gas cylinder supply is not restored within the next 24 hours, the industry may have no option but to close all hotels.

Meanwhile, business owners claim that the administration in Palghar district has completely stopped gas supplies meant for the hotel industry. With the district authorities indicating that gas distribution cannot be resumed immediately, thousands of workers employed in hotels now face a serious threat to their livelihoods.

To cope with the shortage, several hotels are trying alternative arrangements. Some have increased the use of induction cookers and electric ovens, while many dishes that require LPG cylinders have been temporarily removed from menus. In some kitchens, cooking operations are being limited to peak hours only to conserve the remaining gas supply.

However, hotels that do not have access to alternative equipment or additional gas supplies have been forced to shut down indefinitely, according to members of the hotel industry.

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