The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA) has announced a statewide closure on March 23 in response to a severe shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, which is disrupting regular operations across the hospitality sector. In addition to the shutdown, KHRA members plan to hold a protest march to the oil companies’ bottling units in Kochi on Thursday.
The association has urged the state government to designate the hospitality industry as an essential service. Such a classification would require authorities to ensure a steady supply of LPG cylinders, shielding hotels and restaurants from sudden market shortages and supply chain disruptions.
“The current shortage is unsustainable. Hotels serve students, patients, and employees among others. The government should classify them as essential services,” said KHRA general secretary N Abdul Razaq.
With mounting losses and limited bulk deliveries, the association warned that without immediate government intervention, the crisis could destabilize Kerala’s tourism and dining sectors in the long term.
