Commercial LPG shortage forces eateries to raise menu prices in Vijayawada

Vijayawada: The shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has disrupted restaurant operations across the city, forcing hotels, eateries, and food stalls to raise menu tariffs to offset rising expenses. With regular supply remaining erratic, many establishments are compelled to procure cylinders from the black market at inflated rates, adding to their financial burden.A biryani plate that once cost ₹150 now sells for ₹200, while tiffin prices have risen from ₹40 to ₹60 — nearly a 50% hike. "Gas prices are the direct reason for the increase in food rates," said Ravi, an auto driver who frequents the night food court known as Eat Street on MG Road.Tea stalls have also scaled back offerings, discontinuing "special chai" due to cylinder constraints. "Special chai requires fresh preparation and more gas, whereas regular chai can be brewed once and served up to 100 cups," explained a tea maker at Subrang Chai Point in Krishnalanka.Restaurant owners say the crisis has imposed unexpected operational challenges. In addition to paying exorbitant rates for LPG, some have resorted to firewood, which increases expenses and complicates logistics. Hoteliers warn that prolonged shortages could threaten the sustainability of food businesses.Industry representatives note that the temporary hike in menu tariffs is unavoidable, as fuel costs directly affect food preparation. They caution that if supply is not restored soon, more eateries may be forced either to raise tariffs further or scale down operations. The situation, they say, underscores the urgent need for stable cylinder distribution to protect both businesses and consumers.