Madhya Pradesh restaurants struggle as LPG price hike bites into profits
Restaurant owners in Madhya Pradesh are facing higher costs after a sharp rise in commercial LPG prices. From April 1, the price of a 19 kg cylinder jumped by Rs 195, pushing many eateries to reconsider their menus and pricing. Some may soon pass these extra expenses on to customers. The latest price hike affects commercial LPG cylinders across the state. In Bhopal, a 19 kg cylinder now costs Rs 2,084, while in Jabalpur, it has risen to Rs 2,295. Gwalior sees the revised rate at Rs 2,307, and in Rewa, the same cylinder costs Rs 2,331. Indore and Ujjain have also recorded increases, with prices reaching Rs 2,186 and Rs 2,251 respectively.
This adjustment follows a recent Rs 60 rise in domestic LPG cylinder prices just 25 days earlier. Meanwhile, household LPG rates in the state have stayed steady since February 2024, holding at Rs 903 for a 14.2 kg non-subsidised cylinder. Regional variations in pricing still occur due to factors like distributor margins, transport costs, and local taxes. With input costs climbing, several restaurants have already cut back on menu options. Others are preparing to raise food prices, warning that customers may soon notice higher bills.
The latest LPG price surge adds pressure on food businesses already dealing with rising expenses. Many will need to adjust their operations, either by reducing offerings or increasing prices. Customers could feel the impact as eateries respond to the higher costs.
