📰 LPG Crisis Hits Coimbatore: Small Eateries Struggle as Cylinder Prices Soar

Small eateries and roadside food businesses in Coimbatore are facing severe challenges due to an ongoing shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, leading to skyrocketing prices and disrupted daily operations.

Local tea stall owners, small hotels, and bakeries say the situation has worsened over the past few weeks. A commercial LPG cylinder, which earlier cost around ₹2,040, is now being sold at an exorbitant rate of ₹7,000 to ₹10,000 in the black market. Even at these inflated prices, supply remains irregular, with many vendors able to procure cylinders only once every two days.

The shortage has forced several small business owners to either reduce their menu offerings or limit operating hours. Some have even temporarily shut down due to the inability to sustain daily cooking needs.

“We are struggling to keep our businesses running. The cost has increased more than three times, and still we don’t get cylinders regularly,” said a tea stall owner, highlighting the crisis faced by small vendors who depend entirely on LPG for cooking.

Bakery owners have also reported difficulties in maintaining production schedules, leading to reduced output and financial losses. Many fear that if the situation continues, it could lead to job losses and permanent closures of small establishments.

Industry insiders suggest that supply disruptions, increased demand, and possible hoarding may be contributing to the shortage. However, there has been no official clarification on the exact cause.

Local authorities are being urged to intervene and regulate distribution to ensure fair pricing and availability. Traders and vendor associations have demanded immediate action, including strict checks on black marketing and prioritised supply for small businesses.

The crisis underscores the vulnerability of small-scale food businesses, which operate on thin margins and are highly sensitive to fluctuations in essential commodities like LPG.

Unless swift measures are taken to stabilise supply and control prices, many small eateries in Coimbatore may find it increasingly difficult to survive.