LPG supply disruptions hit small food vendors in Visakhapatnam
Concerns over disrupted liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies are rising among small food businesses and community kitchens in Visakhapatnam. Vendors and trade groups say the irregular supply is beginning to affect daily operations across the city.
Large hotels are trying to manage with limited deliveries. However, roadside eateries, tea stalls, and small tiffin centres say inconsistent LPG supplies are creating serious operational challenges. Many vendors have already reduced cooking hours. Some say they may shut temporarily or shift to firewood if the shortage continues.
Industry representatives link the disruption to wider global energy pressures and tensions in West Asia. India imports a large share of its LPG, and recent disruptions in international supply routes have tightened availability. Distributors are now prioritising household consumers, which has reduced supplies for commercial users.
Several small food outlets in Visakhapatnam have already scaled back operations after receiving fewer cylinders than required. Most small establishments maintain only limited LPG stock. Their reserves usually last one or two days, leaving them exposed to sudden supply interruptions.
“Small food vendors depend entirely on regular LPG deliveries,” said an energy sector analyst who tracks fuel distribution trends. “When deliveries become irregular, these businesses have almost no buffer. They must cut operations or switch to inefficient fuels.”
Traders say some vendors are purchasing domestic LPG cylinders in the informal market to keep their kitchens running. These cylinders cost more and reduce already-thin profit margins for small operators.
Community kitchens and night shelters that serve homeless people and low-income residents are also struggling. Operators say maintaining daily meal programmes has become difficult without reliable LPG supplies.
Kishore Yadav, Vice-President of the Visakhapatnam Hotel Merchant Association, said the city’s hospitality sector depends heavily on commercial LPG cylinders. “Hotels and food establishments in Visakhapatnam require around 65,000 to 70,000 commercial cylinders every month,” he said. “If the disruption continues for several more days, many establishments may have to close temporarily.”
Local traders’ associations warn that prolonged shortages could hurt livelihoods and push up food prices. Business groups have urged authorities to ensure the steady distribution of commercial LPG cylinders and curb black-market pricing. They say stable supplies are essential to protect small food service operators and maintain stability in the sector.