Patna: A sharp rise in the price of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders has begun to affect hotels, restaurants, sweet shops and other food businesses in Patna and across Bihar, according to industry operators and consumption data.
Commercial LPG cylinder prices have increased from Rs. 2,010 in February to Rs. 3,421 currently, marking a rise of around 70%. The increase has coincided with a significant decline in commercial LPG consumption across the state.
LPG Consumption Declines in Patna and Bihar
According to Indian Oil data, monthly commercial LPG consumption in Patna has fallen from 32,305 cylinders in February to 23,742 cylinders at present, a decline of about 26.5%.
Across Bihar, consumption has dropped from 68,729 cylinders to 44,596 cylinders, representing a fall of nearly 35%.
Business owners say the rising cost of LPG has substantially increased operating expenses, forcing many establishments to review their fuel usage and cost structures.
Businesses Turn to Alternative Fuels
Several restaurant operators in Patna said they have increased their reliance on coal-fired cooking systems to reduce fuel costs.
The owner of a Family Restaurant in Rajiv Nagar said the establishment previously used between 20 and 30 LPG cylinders a month but has largely shifted to coal. Gas consumption has now fallen to around two cylinders per month.
Pankaj Kumar, owner of a food Restaurant, said coal and induction-based cooking have replaced much of the restaurant’s LPG usage. While menu prices have not been revised so far, discounts offered to customers have been reduced.
Customer Footfall Also Affected
Some businesses reported a decline in customer numbers alongside rising operational costs.
Operator of a Biryani house said customer footfall has fallen by about 20%. However, the nature of biryani preparation means the business cannot completely move away from LPG and still requires 12 to 15 cylinders every month.
A shop making Silao Khaja reported that monthly LPG consumption has decreased from around 30 cylinders to about 20. The proprietor also noted a reduction in customer traffic.
Pressure on Margins Continues
Operators of other Restaurant and Cafe, said they are considering menu price increases of 10% to 15% due to higher fuel costs.
Businesses such as a Tea Stalls and Bhojanalaya and Sweets and Namkeen shops have also increased the use of alternative fuels, including coal, to manage expenses.
Industry operators said the rise in LPG prices has come alongside higher costs for edible oil, milk and other raw materials, placing additional pressure on profit margins.
