India Rations Cooking Gas as Global Crisis Hits Hotels, Restaurants

India has ordered suppliers to regulate commercial cooking gas and prioritize key sectors. This follows global energy market disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. The move comes as hotels and restaurants in major cities report severe shortages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. These cylinders are essential for commercial kitchens. The government directive mandates that distributors must first supply cylinders to "priority sectors." These include hospitals and households. Other users, like the hospitality industry, may face delays. Industry groups warn the shortage is disrupting business. Some restaurants are struggling to maintain normal operations. Global LPG prices and shipping routes have been unstable since the onset of the Gaza conflict. This has impacted supplies to import-dependent nations like India. The government's order is a direct response to secure essential domestic needs.