Manali, May 4
A sharp increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices has intensified the challenges faced by dhaba and restaurant operators in Himachal Pradesh, who are already grappling with supply shortages amid global geopolitical tensions.
Industry stakeholders say the recent ₹993 hike in commercial LPG prices has come at a time when irregular gas supply has already disrupted operations across the tourism-dependent region. Many small business owners claim their earnings have dropped by over 50 per cent due to inconsistent availability of cylinders.
Himachal Pradesh, a key tourist destination, has thousands of hotels, homestays, guest houses, and roadside eateries that rely heavily on commercial LPG for daily operations. Until recently, a commercial cylinder was priced at around ₹1,800, but it has now surged to nearly ₹3,200, significantly increasing operational costs.
Dhaba and restaurant owners warn that if prices remain high, they may have no option but to scale down operations or shut down entirely. “We are already struggling with irregular supply. Now, with such a steep price rise, survival has become difficult,” a local operator said.
While most establishments have not yet increased food prices, operators indicate that a 20 to 50 per cent increase may become unavoidable if LPG rates do not stabilise. However, they also expressed concern that raising prices would directly impact customers and reduce footfall.
Restaurant owners also pointed out delays in cylinder deliveries, which compounded the crisis. They have urged the central government to intervene by reducing prices and ensuring timely supply, especially during the ongoing situation.
“Gas prices have increased, but we cannot immediately pass the burden onto customers. If we raise prices, customers suffer; if we don’t, we incur losses. Small businesses are caught in a difficult situation,” another operator said.
With the dual pressure of rising costs and supply disruptions, small hospitality businesses in the hill state are now looking to the government for urgent relief measures to sustain their operations.
