Kerala witnessed a complete shutdown of hotels, restaurants, and bakeries on Monday due to a 24-hour statewide strike protesting the recent steep hike in LPG prices. The strike, organized by the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA), left thousands of customers, particularly those reliant on affordable dining options, struggling to find food.
The KHRA argues the ₹100 increase in the price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder – bringing the total cost to ₹2,021 – is unsustainable for the industry, already grappling with rising costs of essential commodities. They claim a 30-40% increase in operational expenses due to the price hike, making it difficult to maintain current menu prices.
Approximately 2.5 lakh establishments participated in the strike, including small eateries, large restaurants, and catering services. While hospitals and essential services were exempt, the impact was widespread, particularly affecting daily wage earners, students, and travelers. Many restaurants displayed notices informing customers of the closure.
The association has demanded the government intervene and reduce LPG prices or provide financial assistance to the industry. They argue that the price increase will inevitably lead to higher food costs for consumers and potential business closures.
The state government has acknowledged the concerns and stated that discussions are ongoing with oil companies to address the issue. However, no immediate resolution has been announced. The KHRA has warned of further protests if their demands are not met, potentially including an indefinite strike. The strike highlights the vulnerability of the food service industry to fluctuations in fuel prices and the broader economic challenges faced by small businesses in Kerala. The impact extended to related industries like dairy and spice suppliers, also experiencing reduced demand.
