Amid the ongoing shortage of LPG cylinders in several parts of India, a restaurateur in Mumbai has highlighted the challenges faced by small businesses, claiming he was forced to purchase a commercial induction cooktop worth ₹9,000 for ₹23,000 due to the sudden surge in demand for alternative cooking equipment.
The restaurateur said the scarcity of LPG cylinders has severely affected restaurants and food establishments that rely heavily on gas for daily operations. With LPG supplies becoming irregular, many businesses have started switching to electric appliances such as induction cooktops to keep their kitchens running.
Spike in Prices Due to Demand
According to the restaurant owner, the induction cooktop that usually costs around ₹9,000 was sold at more than double the price, reflecting the sharp increase in demand caused by the gas shortage. Several restaurant owners reportedly rushed to purchase electric stoves and cooktops to avoid shutting down their operations.
The sudden price spike has raised concerns among business owners, who say the shortage is forcing them to spend more just to maintain basic kitchen operations.
Restaurants Struggle to Manage Operations
Food businesses depend on a consistent supply of LPG cylinders for cooking large volumes of food every day. With the supply chain disrupted, many restaurants are struggling to maintain normal service hours. Some establishments have reportedly reduced menu items or limited operating hours until gas supplies stabilize.
Industry representatives say the crisis is particularly difficult for small and medium-sized restaurants, which operate on tight margins and cannot easily absorb sudden increases in equipment costs.
Calls for Government Intervention
Restaurant associations and small business owners are urging authorities to address the LPG supply issue and prevent black-marketing or price gouging of alternative cooking appliances. They have also requested faster distribution of cylinders to commercial establishments.
The LPG shortage has already sparked concerns among households and businesses alike, as cooking gas remains an essential fuel for both domestic and commercial kitchens across India.
Experts warn that if the supply situation does not improve soon, more restaurants may be forced to shift partially to electric cooking systems, which could also increase electricity consumption and operational costs.
