Kolkata: Restaurants and hotels in Kolkata are bracing for possible disruptions in commercial LPG supply if the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region continues. The concern comes after the Union oil ministry directed oil marketing companies (OMCs) to prioritize domestic LPG distribution, a move that could tighten supplies for commercial users such as eateries and hotels.Commercial LPG prices have already risen by Rs 114.50, translating into a hike of about 5.5%–6%.Despite the oil ministry directive, an IOC official said there was no immediate reason for commercial users to panic. “At present, there is no curtailment of commercial LPG supply. We are monitoring the situation closely and ensuring that supply chains remain stable,” the official said.However, restaurant operators say the uncertainty is already creating anxiety across the sector. Sudesh Poddar, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI), acknowledged that many restaurant owners were worried. “There is definitely some panic among restaurateurs. Some eateries that normally require 10 cylinders a day are booking 20 out of fear. But after speaking with IOC officials, we have been assured that there is no need for panic at the moment,” Poddar said.Still, Poddar warned that the price hike itself would affect operating costs. “The increase in cylinder prices directly impacts our expenses. For restaurants operating on tight margins, even a small increase in fuel cost adds pressure,” he said.Bijon Bihari Biswas, spokesperson for LPG dealers in the region, said dealers were receiving anxious calls from commercial users. “Restaurants and caterers are asking whether there will be a shortage. As of now, we are supplying normally. But if the Gulf conflict drags on and imports are affected, commercial supplies could tighten because domestic consumers will get priority,” Biswas explained.“We use two to three cylinders daily for cooking. If the price keeps rising or supply becomes uncertain, it will be very difficult for us,” said Ratan Shaw, who runs a roadside eatery in central Kolkata.Canteen operators echo similar concerns. “Gas is our biggest daily cost after raw materials. If cylinders become scarce, we won’t even be able to run the kitchen properly,” said a manager of a college canteen in south Kolkata.Larger restaurant chains, however, are cautiously optimistic that the situation will stabilize. Nitin Kothari, owner of Peter Cat, Mocambo and Peter Hu!, said the industry had faced similar disruptions before. “I feel the situation will improve. There is no need to panic at this stage,” he said.Debaditya Chaudhury, managing director of the Chowman, Oudh 1590 and Chapter 2 restaurant group, said: “Since we operate pan-India with 57 outlets, any such development will naturally hurt us. However, I believe the government will take the necessary precautions,” Chaudhury said.
