Guwahati's Restaurant Sector Faces Crisis Due to LPG Shortage

Guwahati's restaurant industry is facing a critical situation as a severe shortage of commercial cooking gas threatens to shut down many eateries. The All Assam Restaurant Association has raised alarms about the impact on daily operations, with many establishments already scaling back services or closing temporarily. Chef Atul Lahkar highlighted the urgent need for government intervention, as the lack of LPG cylinders has forced some to resort to firewood for cooking. With rising costs and limited alternatives, the future of thousands of workers in the hospitality sector hangs in the balance. The situation is exacerbated by black market sales and the unavailability of induction stoves, making it difficult for restaurants to adapt. Without immediate action, many may be forced to shut down within days.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 16, 2026, 18:47 IST

Severe LPG Shortage Threatens Guwahati's Eateries

Guwahati, March 16: The hospitality industry in Guwahati is on the brink of a shutdown as a significant shortage of commercial cooking gas disrupts the operations of local hotels and restaurants.

The All Assam Restaurant Association (AARA) expressed concerns on Monday, highlighting that many eateries are struggling to maintain their kitchen operations due to the lack of supply of commercial LPG cylinders.

During a press conference at the Guwahati Press Club, AARA president and chef Atul Lahkar stated that the ongoing shortage is already impacting daily business, leading several establishments to either reduce their services or temporarily close.

“It has been a week since we last received commercial cylinders. Without cooking gas, we cannot operate our hotels and restaurants. Just yesterday, I had to cook using firewood,” Lahkar remarked.

As per the association's reports, numerous roadside food stalls have already ceased operations due to their inability to acquire cylinders.

Lahkar noted that Guwahati is home to approximately 7,000 hotels and restaurants, which provide employment to thousands of individuals.

“Many people rely on the hotel and restaurant industry for their livelihoods. This issue needs urgent attention from the Assam government and the Chief Minister,” Lahkar urged.

With supplies dwindling, several small hotels have turned to firewood as a temporary solution.

Additionally, many restaurants have halted online orders and are limiting their menu offerings to conserve gas.

“If the cylinder supply is not restored soon, many restaurants will be forced to close within days,” Lahkar warned.

The association reported that the shortage has already led to the closure of several eateries, while others are struggling to stay afloat.

Lahkar accused black marketeers of selling commercial LPG cylinders for as much as Rs 4,000 in the unofficial market.

Operators in the restaurant sector have limited options for alternatives to LPG due to safety regulations. Most kitchens are situated within commercial buildings where other fuel types are prohibited.

“Safety concerns prevent us from using any fuel other than gas,” Lahkar explained.

He added that larger restaurants typically require 30 to 32 cylinders monthly, while smaller ones need around 10 to 15 cylinders.

“If the government could at least provide 15 cylinders during this crisis, we could keep our restaurants operational,” Lahkar stated.

The situation has worsened due to the lack of commercial induction stoves in the market, complicating the transition to alternative cooking methods for restaurants.

The industry is also facing rising costs, with Lahkar noting that the price of commercial LPG cylinders has surged threefold in the past two months, with each increase amounting to Rs 260.

“Over the last two years, the prices of essential goods have risen by about 30%,” he added.