One of the worst-hit sectors is hospitality. In states like Telangana and Maharashtra, restaurants and hotels are struggling with erratic supply and rising costs of commercial LPG cylinders. Many establishments have reduced menu offerings or temporarily shut down, unable to sustain operations amid both price pressure and supply uncertainty.
The transport sector, particularly autorickshaw drivers, is also grappling with the fallout. In cities such as Bengaluru and Nagpur, drivers are facing long queues at LPG stations, capped refills, and sharply inflated prices. With limited alternatives and rising operational costs, many have been forced to cut down on work or stop operations altogether.
Urban commuters are beginning to feel the indirect effects, as seen in Kolkata where auto operators have sought fare revisions following record-high LPG prices.
Despite government efforts to increase supply allocations, the situation remains uneven. Distribution delays, lack of clear directives to suppliers, and logistical challenges continue to hamper effective relief.
At the heart of the crisis lies a broader issue—India’s dependence on global energy supply chains. As geopolitical tensions persist, the LPG shortage highlights the urgent need for more resilient supply mechanisms to shield critical sectors and vulnerable workers from such external shocks. Stay with TOI for more updates: