Hotels, restaurants, and bakeries across Kerala will down shutters on Wednesday as part of a 24-hour strike, demanding the withdrawal of the hike in prices of commercial LPG cylinders. The protest, led by the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA), is in response to the price hike of Rs 993 for 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders effective since May 1, pushing rates above Rs 3,000. The shutdown is expected to be near-total, with all dining, take-away, and online food delivery services shut for the day.
KHRA Calls for Action
KHRA state committee president G Jayapal stated, "Most hoteliers have reached a point where they can no longer absorb the cost increase." KHRA represents nearly one lakh eateries in the state. Industry leaders emphasized that the hospitality sector, already reeling from high labour costs and rising commodity prices, cannot absorb a hike of this magnitude. The total increase over the last few months has reportedly crossed Rs 1,400 per cylinder, making daily operations unviable for many small and medium-sized eateries.
Support from Trade Bodies
Several major trade bodies, including the Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi, All Kerala Caterers Association, and Hostel Owners Federation, will support the agitation. KHRA plans to organize protest marches and dharnas in front of central government offices and petroleum company headquarters, including a protest at Panampilly Nagar in Ernakulam.
The hospitality sector has been struggling with high operational costs, and this latest price hike has added to the burden. Small and medium-sized eateries, in particular, are finding it difficult to sustain their daily operations. The strike is expected to send a strong message to the government regarding the urgent need to address the issue.
Restaurants and hotels across the state will remain closed for the entire day, affecting thousands of customers and food delivery services. The KHRA has urged all members to participate in the strike and join the protest marches to demand a rollback of the price hike.
