A significant increase in commercial LPG prices has led to widespread protests and shutdowns within Kerala’s food sector, as the price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder has surged to ₹3,000 following a recent ₹1,000 hike. This increase, which marks a cumulative rise of ₹1,498 over the past five months, has prompted the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association to voice strong objections.
Key statistics:
- The price of a 19-kg commercial LPG cylinder in Kerala has crossed ₹3,000 after a ₹1,000 increase.
- The cumulative hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices over the past five months is ₹1,498.
- The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association is protesting against the increase in commercial cooking gas prices.
P.P. Abdurahman, a representative from the association, described the unilateral ₹1,000 increase as “unprecedented in India and wholly unjustifiable,” emphasizing that if such price increases persist, establishments may have no choice but to raise food prices by 50% to 60% to remain viable. The government has also announced plans to cut LPG connections for households with piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure by June 30, 2026, further complicating the situation.
According to documents from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, new rules for gas cylinder connections were issued in March 2026. Households utilizing both LPG and PNG services are currently being identified by authorities. Those with PNG connections will not be eligible for new LPG or refills. City gas distribution companies are instructed to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments.
This shift towards promoting piped gas connections reflects an ongoing effort by the government to reduce reliance on LPG while simultaneously addressing concerns regarding methane emissions associated with traditional gas usage. Observers note that this transition could have significant implications for both consumers and businesses alike.
The situation remains fluid as stakeholders await further clarification on how these changes will affect pricing structures and availability of gas services across the state. While protests continue to unfold, it is clear that the ramifications of these price hikes will resonate throughout Kerala’s food sector for some time.
