LPG crisis: Hotel and restaurant owners' body seeks licence fee relief amid gas cylinder shortage in Maharashtra

The association also proposed a staggered payment mechanism. Pic/ @HRAWIOfficial on X

A body representing hotel and restaurant owners has urged the Maharashtra government to grant an extension or allow staggered payment of the annual licence fee, citing a commercial LPG shortage that has forced several establishments to shut down.

According to the PTI, the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) (HRAWI) on Tuesday submitted a representation to Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for State Excise, requesting a one-month extension of the licence fee payment deadline from March 31 to April 30.

The association also proposed a staggered payment mechanism, allowing the annual licence fee to be paid in four quarterly instalments, by March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.

30-35 per cent hotels, restaurants shut amid LPG supply crisis

"The situation on the ground remains critical, with approximately 30 to 35 per cent of hotels and restaurants currently shut due to a near-complete halt in LPG supply from distributors," HRAWI said, reported PTI.

Establishments that continue to operate are doing so with curtailed hours and restricted menus, optimising fuel usage to sustain operations, it added.

However, many of these establishments may also be forced to shut down within the next two to three days if supplies are not restored.

"At this critical juncture, we urge the government to provide immediate relief by granting an extension or permitting staggered payment of the annual licence fee. Such support will go a long way in helping the industry navigate this liquidity crunch," HRAWI spokesperson Pradeep Shetty said, the news agency reported.

No LPG, petrol or diesel shortage in Maharashtra; govt steps up action against black marketing: Chhagan Bhujbal

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.

Govt assures adequate fuel supply

Addressing the House, Bhujbal said the state has sufficient reserves of petroleum products despite global supply disruptions. He noted that domestic LPG production has been increased from 9,000 metric tonnes to 11,000 metric tonnes per day to maintain steady availability.

He also clarified that petrol and diesel stocks remain stable, with no change in retail prices across the state.

(With PTI inputs)