Himachal's tourism economy at risk if LPG supply falters: Hotel body

The Federation of Himachal Hotels and Restaurant Association (FHHRA) has urged the Union Government to ensure the adequate and uninterrupted supply of commercial LPG cylinders, warning that shortages could severely affect the hospitality industry in tourism-dependent states like Himachal Pradesh.

In a letter addressed to Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister for the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, FHHRA president Gajender Thakur expressed concern over the reported shortage and irregular supply of commercial LPG cylinders in the market. He noted that disruptions in supply from Gulf countries and ongoing geopolitical tensions could potentially impact LPG availability and distribution across India.

According to the association, the hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, dhabas and catering establishments, depends heavily on commercial LPG cylinders for daily operations such as cooking and food preparation. Thousands of tourists and local residents rely on these services, making a steady supply of LPG essential for the smooth functioning of the industry.

Thakur highlighted that Himachal Pradesh, one of India’s major tourist destinations, has a large section of its population dependent on tourism for livelihood. During peak tourist seasons, demand for food services rises significantly and any shortage of commercial LPG cylinders could lead to operational challenges for hospitality establishments.

He warned that disruptions in LPG supply could affect not only the functioning of hotels and restaurants but also the overall experience of tourists visiting the state. “Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of Himachal Pradesh and any disruption in essential services like food preparation can have a wider impact on the tourism sector,” the letter stated.

The association also pointed out that small and medium-sized hospitality establishments are particularly vulnerable in such situations, as they often lack alternative energy arrangements. A prolonged shortage could increase operational costs, interrupt services and place financial strain on businesses that already operate on limited margins.

The federation has requested the Centre to take immediate steps to stabilize the LPG supply chain and ensure adequate availability of commercial cylinders across the country. It has also sought priority allocation for the hospitality sector, especially in tourism-oriented states such as Himachal Pradesh.

Copies of the letter have also been sent to the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, as well as to the presidents of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Northern India (HRANI) and the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), seeking their support in addressing the issue. The association expressed hope that the Union government would consider the matter urgently to safeguard the interests of the hospitality industry and the tourism economy.