Himachal Pradesh LPG Crisis: Hotels & Restaurants Still Struggle as Commercial Cylinder Shortage Continues

Even as the panic over domestic LPG shortages in Himachal Pradesh begins to ease, a different crisis is quietly squeezing the state’s hospitality sector.

Hotels, restaurants, and roadside dhabas are still struggling to get commercial LPG cylinders — and it’s starting to impact both business operations and tourist experiences.

For many small business owners, this isn’t just a supply issue anymore — it’s a daily survival challenge.

“I’ve had to cut down half my menu,” says a restaurant owner in Manali. “We simply don’t have enough gas to cook everything.”

Government Steps In, But Pressure Remains

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has acknowledged the issue and assured that the state government will raise the matter with the Centre. The goal is to ensure a steady supply of LPG cylinders — both domestic and commercial — along with petrol and diesel, so that such disruptions don’t repeat.

But on the ground, the situation is still far from normal.

Temporary Relief from Tribal Regions

In a short-term fix, the government has diverted some commercial LPG cylinders from remote tribal regions like Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi to high-demand areas such as the Kullu-Manali tourist belt.

The move is aimed at keeping essential services running — especially hospitals and educational institutions, where uninterrupted fuel supply is critical.

Lahaul-Spiti MLA Anuradha Rana clarified that this is only a temporary arrangement. According to her, unused stock in the tribal regions made it possible to support areas facing urgent shortages — but the cylinders will be returned once supply stabilises.

Businesses Forced to Adapt

With no clear timeline for full recovery, many businesses are being forced to improvise.

From switching to electric induction stoves to using coal for cooking, hotels and eateries are trying everything to stay afloat. However, these alternatives come with their own challenges — higher costs, slower cooking, and compromised efficiency.

For a state heavily dependent on tourism, especially in areas like Manali and Kullu, the timing couldn’t be worse.

What Lies Ahead?

While government intervention offers some hope, the ongoing shortage of commercial LPG remains a serious concern for Himachal’s hospitality sector.

Until supply chains stabilise, businesses will continue to operate under pressure — balancing rising costs, limited resources, and customer expectations.

And for now, the flame in many kitchens across Himachal is burning — but not without struggle.

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