A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders in Uttarakhand is now directly impacting food prices, with hotels, restaurants, and roadside eateries increasing rates due to rising operational costs. Affordable meals that were earlier available for around ₹50 are now being sold for ₹70, while paratha prices have surged from ₹30–40 to ₹60–70.
The impact is visible across small eateries and established restaurants alike. In areas like Lalpul, menu prices have been revised significantly, with items such as masala dosa rising from ₹80 to ₹100, pav bhaji from ₹80 to ₹100, and paneer dosa from ₹110 to ₹130. Even tea prices have increased from ₹10 to ₹12–15 per cup.
Vendors report that commercial cylinders are either unavailable or being sold at inflated rates in the black market. Cylinders that typically cost ₹1700–1800 are now reportedly being sold for up to ₹4000. Smaller cylinders, often used as an alternative, have also seen steep price hikes, with refill rates crossing ₹300 per kilogram.
Due to the shortage, many small dhabas and street vendors have been forced to shut operations temporarily. In the Lalpul–Kargi Road vending zone, several stalls remain closed, while a few continue to operate using makeshift arrangements such as traditional stoves or limited gas supply.
Operators say their businesses now depend on irregular cylinder availability, forcing them to close shops once fuel runs out. While the situation has exposed gaps in supply management, no clear timeline has been provided for restoration of normal distribution, raising concerns about prolonged impact on both livelihoods and consumer expenses.
