Hyderabad: Oil marketing companies have hiked commercial LPG cylinder prices across India, with Hyderabad retailers now paying ₹2,105 for a 19-kg cylinder—a sharp rise that hits restaurants, hotels, and small businesses hardest.
The price jump, effective immediately, tracks global crude oil volatility and recent West Asia tensions. In Hyderabad, the 19-kg commercial cylinder now costs ₹2,105.50, up from previous rates around ₹1,975. Larger 47.5-kg units hit ₹4,900. Mumbai sees ₹1,835, Delhi ₹1,883, Kolkata ₹1,990, and Chennai ₹2,043 for 19-kg cylinders.
Restaurant owners feel immediate pain. “This hike adds ₹4,000 monthly to our costs. We either raise menu prices or cut portions—both hurt customers,” said Ramesh Naidu, owner of a popular Biryani outlet in Secunderabad. The timing worsens ongoing chicken shortages that shuttered shops this week.
Oil firms revise rates monthly based on international benchmarks like Saudi Aramco contracts, import duties, and forex rates. Recent Iran-Qatar tanker strikes spiked Brent crude to $88/barrel, passing costs to consumers. Domestic LPG remains stable at ₹965 for 14.2-kg household cylinders in Hyderabad.
Industry groups warn of cascading effects. “Hotels pass 40% of hikes to bills, but street vendors absorb losses. Small eateries face closure risk,” said Telangana Hoteliers Association president Prakash Reddy.
Consumers already battle inflation. “LPG charges appeared on restaurant bills last month. Now biryani prices will climb too,” noted office-goer Priya Sharma from Gachibowli.
Energy analyst Dr. Sanjay Gupta explained, “Commercial LPG tracks unsubsidised global rates. Gulf disruptions guarantee more hikes unless tensions ease.” He predicted another ₹100-150/kg rise by May if oil stays above $85.
Government sources confirm no rollback plans, citing fiscal constraints. Businesses pivot to electricity or PNG where available, though conversion costs run high.
The LPG surge compounds Hyderabad’s food inflation crisis, squeezing eateries between global energy shocks and local supply woes.
