LPG price hike: Hotels in Kerala to remain shut on May 6

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Hotel owners in the state are heading towards a strike in protest against the increase in the price of commercial cylinders. The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association called for a statewide protest by closing hotels on May 6. The protest was sparked by a one-time increase of Rs 993 for a 19 kg cylinder. With this, the price of a commercial cylinder in the state has crossed Rs 3000. Due to the increase in the price of the cylinder, hotels are forced to increase the prices of their dishes. This will be a big setback for consumers as well. Meanwhile, the price of domestic cylinders has not been increased. However, there are reports that the price of domestic cylinders will be increased after the election results are out.

The new impact on the hotel sector comes as the restrictions on commercial cylinder supply are returning to normal following the Hormuz crisis. According to the revised increase, a 19 kg commercial cylinder in Thiruvananthapuram will cost Rs 3106. In Kochi, the price is Rs 3085, and in Kozhikode, it is Rs 3117. The price increase will severely affect hotels, restaurants, small hotels, and street eateries.