HYDERABAD: Restaurants and hotels across Hyderabad are beginning to feel the heat as a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders threatens to disrupt kitchen operations. The crunch is being driven by growing pressure on global fuel supplies due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.The situation comes at a time when eateries are witnessing heavy late-night footfall and special iftar menus are drawing large crowds at popular food hubs across the city.Adding to the concern, several dealers have started limiting the number of cylinders they can supply, leaving many kitchens uncertain about how long they can continue operating normally.Ali Asghar Bolooki, who runs one of the city’s oldest biryani outlets, Cafe Bahar, said his latest order was only partly fulfilled. “I ordered 10 cylinders but received only five. The supplier even told me they are not sure if they can supply from tomorrow,” he said. “The price has also increased. Earlier it was Rs 4,300, but this time he asked for Rs 5,500. I was ready to pay even more, but he said they have instructions that commercial gas supply may not continue.“Restaurant chains that depend on a steady supply of cylinders say the situation is becoming stressful.Naga Bharan Chilamakuri, owner of Panchkattu Dosa, which operates multiple branches, said each outlet requires several cylinders daily to keep kitchens running. “All our branches are struggling. We need at least 10 to 15 cylinders every day,” he said. “Right now we have stock for another four days. If the shortage continues, we may have to keep only a couple of branches open.”Sampath T, owner of Spicy Venue in Jubilee Hills, said the outlook from distributors has become uncertain. “Earlier the dealer said they could support us for a few weeks, but it already seems difficult now,” he said. “Our kitchen needs five to six cylinders every day to run normally.”The Telangana LPG Distributors Association said the shortage is linked to global factors and can’t be resolved locally. Jagan Mohan Reddy, president of the association, said, “Transportation routes are disrupted and production has slowed down. Even if the conflict stops immediately, it will take time to bridge the gap.”He urged households not to panic, noting that domestic LPG supply is being prioritised while consumers should also consider alternatives like induction stoves and electric cookers.
