Mangaluru: A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, directly linked to disruptions in global energy supply caused by the ongoing war in the Middle East, is pushing restaurants across the city toward a possible shutdown. Industry representatives warn that many eateries may be forced to close within days if supplies are not restored.

President of the Restaurants’ Association, Mangaluru, Kudpi Jagadish Shenoy, said most members have decided to shut down their establishments if gas cylinders are not refilled within the next two to three days. He noted that restaurants cannot operate by relying only on electric boilers or steam-based cooking systems.

According to Shenoy, the supply of commercial LPG cylinders has been disrupted, putting thousands of livelihoods in the hospitality sector at risk. “It is not possible to run restaurants without LPG. Using only steam or other alternatives is not a practical solution,” he said.

He also pointed out that the government recently increased the refill price for commercial LPG cylinders by about ₹115. While the association does not oppose a reasonable price increase, Shenoy stressed that the product must also be available in the market. “After increasing the price, supply should be ensured. How can we run our business without the product?” he questioned.

President of the South Canara Hotel and Restaurants’ Association, Manohar Shetty, said the combined impact of rising LPG prices and the shortage could have a cascading effect on both the hospitality industry and consumers. He added that restaurant owners are finding it difficult to raise menu prices to offset the increased costs.

“It is a major problem for us. For now, we have no option but to wait and hope that the situation improves soon,” Shetty said.

Activist Muneer Katipalla said the public has already begun feeling the economic impact of the crisis. “If the situation continues, the effects will only intensify,” he warned.

Meanwhile, Capt Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament from Dakshina Kannada, has written to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighting concerns raised by the restaurant and hospitality sector over the irregular supply of commercial LPG cylinders.

In his letter, Chowta said entrepreneurs from coastal Karnataka—especially those from Dakshina Kannada running restaurants and catering businesses in cities such as Bengaluru and Mumbai—have reported that disruptions in LPG supply are affecting daily operations and the livelihoods dependent on the sector. He urged the Union minister to review the situation and ensure uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG cylinders.