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With supplies prioritised for essential services, many have reduced menus and shifted to firewood or induction cooking
Shillong: A shortage of commercial LPG has started to impact the tourism sector in Meghalaya, with several hotels and restaurants cutting down on menus and services, officials said on Wednesday.
Authorities indicated that the limited availability of commercial LPG is currently being directed towards essential services such as hospitals and hostels. This prioritisation has led to operational challenges for the hospitality industry.
Hotels turn to alternatives
Hotel and resort operators, especially in key tourist destinations such as Shillong and Sohra, said they are being compelled to reduce services and adopt alternative cooking methods.
One resort owner in Sohra shared a message on social media stating, “To all our guests and visitors, we are switching to firewood and charcoal-based slow cooking from tomorrow. Kindly bear with us for longer wait times and limited local food only.”
Menus reduced, operations affected
Industry representatives said the shortage has disrupted routine kitchen operations, with many establishments unable to provide full menus due to fuel constraints.
P S Sahdev, president of the Hotel Federation of Shillong, said there has been no noticeable supply for the past two weeks. “Most hotels and restaurants are now relying on induction cooktops. Tandoori and chulha-based cooking methods are also being used as alternatives,” he said.
He further explained that a complete shift to induction cooking is not feasible for many establishments because of inconsistent power supply and limited sanctioned electrical load.
Costs rising, surcharge likely
Sahdev noted that most hotels and restaurants have already reduced their menu offerings. He warned that if the situation continues, establishments may be forced to introduce a gas surcharge due to rising operational costs.
He also alleged that despite directions to ensure at least 20 percent LPG supply to the sector, the implementation on the ground has been inadequate.
Tourism season at risk
Stakeholders cautioned that a prolonged shortage could negatively affect tourist experiences during the ongoing travel season, particularly in popular areas across East Khasi Hills district.
Authorities assure action
Officials, however, maintained that essential services remain the top priority and said efforts are underway to improve the supply situation.
Earlier, the Hotel Federation had written to the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, seeking assistance to sustain tourism activities during the shortage.
According to a Tourism department official, Meghalaya recorded more than 1.6 million tourist visits last year, highlighting the importance of the sector to the state’s economy.
With Agency inputs
Published: 25 Mar 2026, 06:30 pm IST
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