As Mumbai reels under liquified petroleum gas (LPG) shortage, the vendors at Churchgate's Khau Galli have switched to alternative cooking methods such as coal and electric fryers to keep their kitchens running. The crisis has affected commercial supplies, prompting many food stalls to adapt quickly to meet customer demand. PICS/ASHISH RAJE
Updated On: 2026-03-18 10:25 PM IST
Compiled by : Divya Nair
India's worst LPG crisis in decades stems from shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the US- Israeli conflict with Iran, severely affecting imports that make up about 90 per cent of the country's LPG supply
However, Maharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Tuesday assured the legislative assembly that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol or diesel in the state, stating that adequate stocks are available and proactive measures are being taken to prevent black marketing and ensure smooth distribution
The LPG crisis is severely affecting eateries, stalls, and restaurants. Around 30 to 35 per cent of hotels and restaurants have currently shut due to a near-complete halt in LPG supply from distributors, the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) said
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government has intensified its efforts to ensure uninterrupted delivery of LPG cylinders to domestic consumers and curb black marketing
A total of 2,129 raids have been conducted across Maharashtra so far, resulting in the seizure of 1,208 LPG cylinders that were being illegally marketed
Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi said on Monday that the government is making all efforts to ensure that global energy supply constraints do not affect common citizens
Meanwhile, fewer crowds were seen at Churchgate’s Khau Galli amid the LPG crunch.
