Restaurant body NRAI flags LPG supply concerns, urges govt to ensure uninterrupted cylinders for restaurants

NEW DELHI: The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) has written to Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, urging the government to ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG to restaurants across the country amid growing concerns over supply disruptions.The industry body warned that any shortage of commercial LPG cylinders or regulatory changes affecting their availability could severely impact restaurant operations and disrupt food services for lakhs of citizens.The concern follows recent government measures aimed at safeguarding domestic LPG supplies. The booking interval for domestic LPG cylinders has been increased from 21 days to 25 days to curb hoarding and ensure equitable distribution during global energy supply uncertainties.

At the same time, directives prioritising LPG supply for household consumption have created confusion among distributors and food businesses. In its letter, NRAI highlighted that the restaurant industry is heavily dependent on commercial LPG for daily kitchen operations. The association noted that any disruption in its supply could lead to widespread closure of restaurants.The industry body also stressed that food supply is an essential service.

During the Covid-19 lockdowns, restaurants continued operations to ensure access to meals for people, particularly those dependent on outside food.NRAI pointed to a specific provision in the ministry's order which states that LPG supplied by public sector oil marketing companies should be marketed only to domestic consumers. According to the association, this clause has led some LPG suppliers to interpret the order as a restriction on commercial cylinder supply.The restaurant industry, which represents over five lakh establishments across India, has requested the ministry to clarify the order and ensure continued supply of commercial LPG cylinders so that restaurants can maintain uninterrupted services.Industry stakeholders say a clear directive from the government will help prevent supply disruptions.