Commercial LPG Shortage Hits Pune: Hotels Turn to Wood Stoves as Markets See Rush for Alternatives
Commercial LPG Shortage Hits Pune: Hotels Turn to Wood Stoves as Markets See Rush for Alternatives
Pune, March 11, 2026: A sudden disruption in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders has triggered widespread concern across Pune, forcing hotels and eateries to look for alternative cooking options while creating heavy demand for substitute appliances in city markets.
Following directives from the Government of India, the supply of commercial gas cylinders has reportedly been halted, leading to major challenges for restaurants, small food businesses, and hostels that depend heavily on LPG for daily operations. The situation has also affected thousands of students who come to the city for education and competitive exam coaching, as many rely on small eateries and mess facilities for meals.
With commercial LPG cylinders becoming unavailable, several restaurant owners have started shifting to traditional wood-fired stoves, electric induction cooktops, and diesel-based furnaces. As a result, markets in Pune have witnessed a sudden surge in demand for these alternatives. Shopkeepers say that the spike in purchases over the last three days has created long waiting periods, with customers being told they may have to wait up to eight days to receive these appliances.
Hotels Fear Massive Shutdown
The lack of commercial LPG supply has created a severe crisis for the hospitality sector. At present, commercial cylinders are reportedly unavailable at gas distribution centers across the city. Only businesses that had stocked cylinders a few days earlier may be able to continue operations for a short period.
Hotel and restaurant owners say the shortage has already resulted in financial losses over the past two days, with several establishments forced to cancel large orders and reduce their menu offerings. Industry representatives fear that if the situation continues, nearly 85 percent of hotels in the city could shut down within the next 24 hours.
Domestic LPG Supply Also Tight
Apart from commercial cylinders, residents are also facing delays in domestic LPG supplies. The waiting period for booking a refill has reportedly increased from around 20–21 days to nearly 25 days.
In addition, customers who have not completed the mandatory KYC process are reportedly being denied cylinder refills. With commercial supply already suspended, the shortage is affecting not only hotels but also several small businesses that depend on LPG.
The ongoing disruption has created confusion among residents and business owners alike. Consumers who earlier received home delivery of cylinders are now reportedly standing in long queues outside gas agencies in the scorching heat, leading to growing frustration among citizens.
