Pankaj Jain
New Delhi, March 12 (UNI) Concerns over the availability of cooking gas have begun to affect small food outlets in the national capital, with at least one popular eatery in New Delhi’s Connaught Place (CP) putting up a notice informing customers about limited menu options due to the non-availability of gas cylinders.
At Dhaba Food, a well-known food shop in the CP area, a poster displayed at the counter states that “only rajma chawal and kadhi chawal will be served because gas cylinders are not currently available”.
The shop’s operator, Saurabh Mehta said the outlet has only a limited stock of cooking gas left, which may last for two to four days.
“We have very little stock remaining. If we are able to arrange more gas cylinders, the shop will continue to operate. Otherwise, we may have to temporarily shut down,” Mehta said.
The notice at the shop has drawn attention from regular customers and office-goers in the busy commercial district, where several people rely on small eateries for daily meals.
When asked whether the situation could lead to higher food prices, Mehta said he would prefer not to raise rates.
“We do not want to increase prices because it directly affects the common man. Many people come here to eat every day, and we also supply food to nearby offices,” he said.
He added that if the situation worsens, gas cylinders may only be available in the black market, which could create further challenges for small businesses.
Appealing to the authorities, Mehta urged the government not to overlook commercial gas users.
“Domestic supply is important, but commercial gas cylinders should also be given attention because many livelihoods and a part of the local economy depend on it,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Government of Delhi has maintained that the overall fuel supply situation in the capital remains normal.
Delhi government on Wednesday clarified that the supply of LPG, petrol, diesel and PNG in the national capital remains completely normal and there is no shortage of any fuel.
The government has appealed to residents not to pay attention to rumours being circulated about gas supply and to avoid unnecessary panic or hoarding.
Delhi chief secretary held a key review meeting with senior officials from the Department of Food, Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Delhi Police, the Revenue Department, Indraprastha Gas Limited and various oil marketing companies participated in the meeting.
The discussion focused on rumours suggesting that LPG supplies could be disrupted due to war-like developments in the Middle East, and the situation was reviewed in detail.
The government has also directed officials to ensure strict action against any instances of gas theft or black marketing.
Delhi Police and Revenue Department officials have been specifically instructed to remain vigilant in this regard.
