Bhubaneswar, Mar 10: The Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) on Tuesday urged Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri to intervene in resolving disruptions in the supply of commercial LPG cylinders, which have created serious operational challenges for the state’s hospitality industry.

In a memorandum submitted to the Minister, the association highlighted that hotels and restaurants across Odisha are facing difficulties in maintaining smooth operations due to irregular supply of LPG cylinders. The shortage, they said, has directly impacted cooking and service delivery, threatening the daily functioning of establishments and potentially affecting tourism.

HRAO Chairman J.K. Mohanty emphasized that uninterrupted LPG supply is critical for the hospitality sector, which contributes significantly to employment and tourism revenue in the state. He noted that the industry has already been under pressure due to rising costs and recent disruptions, and the current shortage could further strain businesses.

The association warned that if the issue persists, it could lead to cancellations, reduced services, and even temporary closures of hotels and restaurants. Such disruptions, they added, would not only affect the hospitality industry but also have a cascading impact on Odisha’s tourism economy.

Also Read: Govt Extends LPG Refill wait amid Panic Buying; Petrol, Diesel Prices to stay unchanged

Seeking urgent government action, the hoteliers requested the Petroleum Ministry to ensure smooth provisions of commercial LPG cylinders and stabilize supply chains. They stressed that timely intervention is essential to safeguard livelihoods and maintain the state’s reputation as a tourist destination.