Kolkata Restaurants Face LPG Crisis Amid West Asia Turmoil

Kolkata's restaurants are facing an LPG shortage due to the West Asia crisis, threatening closures and operational disruptions. Industry leaders seek government intervention to ensure fuel supply, as the crisis mirrors situations in other cities. Restaurants are exploring alternatives like induction cookers amid rising supply concerns.

Kolkata's thriving restaurant industry is grappling with an urgent shortage of commercial LPG as the West Asia conflict disrupts energy supplies. This crisis echoes across other metropolis regions like Bengaluru and Chennai, sparking fears of potential operational shutdowns if the fuel supply chain isn't restored soon.

The National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI) and hospitality leaders are advocating for immediate government intervention. They stress that any prolonged disruption in LPG supply could severely impact the industry's ability to operate, affecting both establishments and employees. The NRAI has already sought assistance from Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in this matter.

Many restaurants are now considering alternative methods, such as using induction cookers, to counteract the inconsistency in gas supplies. Debaditya Chaudhury, Managing Director of Chowman restaurant chain, emphasized the need for adaptability to navigate this challenge, drawing inspiration from their resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies.)