Despite govt claim of 20% hike in commercial LPG supply, ground reality remains bleak

Nagpur: Despite the state govt's announcement of a 20% increase in commercial LPG supply, the situation on the ground remains strained, with hoteliers continuing to face acute shortages.A limited number of LPG distributors received fresh consignments on Wednesday evening, but deliveries to hotels and restaurants have not commenced due to the absence of clear directives from oil marketing companies, sources said.The state's move followed the Centre's direction to raise commercial LPG allocation from 30% to 50% for hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and similar establishments. Nagpur Residential Hotels Association (NRHA) president Tejinder Singh Renu said the claimed increase is not visible on the ground.

"The price rise may be understandable given global factors, but supply must be ensured as per the government's assurance," he said.Gas agency operator Mahendra Gawai said deliveries to commercial establishments remain stalled. "Oil companies have halted the supply of commercial cylinders to hotels and restaurants under our allocation. We have not received fresh stock to distribute," he said.Some movement was reported late Wednesday, with LPG Dealers Association of India's state president Bablu Tiwari confirming receipt of a consignment. However, he said suppliers are awaiting formal instructions before resuming distribution to commercial users.With uncertainty persisting despite official assurances, stakeholders have urged authorities to ensure steady and predictable LPG supply to prevent further disruption to the hospitality sector.