Gas cylinder shortages cripple hotels, limiting Eid feasts
The LPG crisis in Tamil Nadu has forced hotels to cook on wood, driving up costs. Food prices, including biryani, are rising. Family feasts during Ramadan have become smaller, impacting hotel business.
The shortage of LPG cylinders in Tamil Nadu has exacerbated the difficulties of the hotel industry. Due to the disruption in gas supplies, hotels are now forced to use firewood. This is directly impacting food prices, especially the price of biryani, a popular dish during Ramadan and Eid.
Ramadan affected, family gatherings reduced
Tensions in West Asia have exacerbated the LPG crisis, impacting the lives of ordinary people.
While large families used to gather for feasts during Ramadan, people are now cooking at home in smaller groups. Local residents in Chennai say they celebrated the festival by preparing smaller quantities of biryani.
Economic pressure on the hotel industry
According to the Tamil Nadu Hotel Association, approximately 90% of hotels are currently not profitable. Hotel business in Chennai has declined by approximately 30%,
while other parts of the state have also seen a 10% drop. Rising wood prices have further increased hotel expenses, forcing them to raise food prices.
Changes to the food menu
Hotels are now cooking not only biryani but also side dishes over wood. However, due to rising costs, many places have discontinued deep-fried items.
Some larger restaurants have switched to induction stoves. Items like dosa are no longer available throughout the day and are prepared only during fixed hours.
Prices may increase further
Hotel operators say that if the LPG shortage continues and firewood prices continue to rise, food and beverage prices could become even more expensive in the coming days.
Currently, both customers and businesses are bearing the brunt of this crisis.