Hyderabad’s restaurants and caterers warn of a commercial LPG shortage as global tensions disrupt supply, forcing kitchens to switch to firewood or cut menus.

Hyderabad’s food industry is grappling with a sudden shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, raising concerns that restaurants, caterers and even wedding events could soon face major disruptions.

Catering businesses say they have been struggling to secure small LPG cylinders for over a week. With Ramzan events and wedding bookings already lined up, many kitchens are scrambling for alternatives. Some caterers have begun switching to firewood for large dishes such as biryani, reserving whatever gas remains for items that cannot be cooked over wood.

Hotel owners say the situation has worsened rapidly. According to industry representatives, commercial LPG supply in the city has dropped to roughly 30 percent of its usual levels, leaving restaurants and caterers uncertain about how long they can continue normal operations.

The shortage is linked to wider geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have disrupted energy movement through the Strait of Hormuz a key maritime route for oil and gas shipments. The central government has reportedly prioritised domestic LPG supply under the Essential Commodities Act, ensuring household cylinders remain available while commercial supply has tightened.

Some older establishments equipped for wood-fired cooking are managing for now by altering their menus. Traditional dishes suited for coal or firewood cooking remain available, while others have been temporarily removed. However, newer restaurants and smaller eateries lacking such infrastructure may be forced to close if the shortage continues.

Tiffin centres across the city are also worried. Many rely exclusively on LPG for items like dosas and idlis, making firewood cooking impractical. Industry leaders warn that even if global tensions ease soon, supply chains could take months to stabilise.

For Hyderabad’s famed culinary scene especially during Ramzan and wedding season the crisis highlights how international conflicts can quickly ripple into everyday life. Until supply improves, kitchens across the city may have to adapt, improvise or temporarily scale down operations.