Pune Restaurants Begin Partial Shutdown As Commercial LPG Supply Disruptions Hit Food Industry
Pune Restaurants Begin Partial Shutdown As Commercial LPG Supply Disruptions Hit Food Industry
Pune, March 10, 2026: Several eateries, bakeries and restaurants across Pune have begun partially or fully shutting operations due to the unavailability of commercial LPG cylinders, industry representatives said.
According to Saili Jahagirdar, owner-operator of Zillionth Bistro and Billion Burgers and Pune chapter head of the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the shortage has significantly affected food businesses in the city.
Jahagirdar said the disruption has occurred because the government is prioritising LPG supply for domestic consumption, leaving commercial establishments struggling to procure cylinders needed for daily operations.
She pointed out that the restaurant sector supports a wide range of services beyond regular diners. Food businesses also cater to schools, corporate canteens, hospitals and other institutions, meaning the shortage could affect essential services as well.
Industry representatives also said the situation contradicts recent reports suggesting that there is no ban or shortage of commercial LPG in the market. According to them, the ground reality for many establishments is that cylinders are currently unavailable.
The restaurant body has urged authorities to introduce a rationing mechanism for commercial LPG supply instead of halting it completely. They warned that a prolonged disruption could lead to widespread closures and significant economic losses across the hospitality sector.
The shortage may also have a ripple effect on food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato, as reduced restaurant operations could impact online food orders and overall revenue in the sector.
Restaurant owners have appealed to the government to address the issue urgently to prevent further disruption to businesses and services dependent on the food industry.
The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the apex body representing the Indian restaurant industry, has appealed to the government for sustained support amid disruptions in commercial LPG supply. Key leaders of the association, including Sagar Daryani, Pranav Rungta, Zorawar Kalra, and Gauri Devidayal, have emphasized the critical role of uninterrupted LPG supply for commercial kitchens.
In a letter signed by NRAI Secretary General Prakul Kumar, the association urged authorities to ensure continuous provision of commercial LPG cylinders. The request highlights the importance of maintaining business continuity in restaurants, which cater not only to everyday diners but also to schools, hospitals, corporate canteens, and other essential services.
NRAI stressed that any prolonged disruption could severely impact operations, leading to closures and affecting the food ecosystem across the country. Copies of the appeal have been sent to Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and Kushagra Mittal, Director of LPG, seeking urgent attention. The association requested the government to consider the matter favorably, underscoring the need for timely intervention to safeguard the industry and ensure uninterrupted food services for citizens.
This coordinated effort reflects NRAI’s commitment to representing restaurant owners and advocating for practical solutions to operational challenges.
