Cooks prepare food on induction cooktops at a restaurant after shifting from commercial LPG due to supply disruptions amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, in Mumbai, Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
| Photo Credit:
KUNAL PATIL
The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) has urged the Maharashtra government to grant an extension or allow staggered payment of the annual license fee in light of the on-going disruption in commercial LPG supply, which has severely impacted the hospitality sector across Maharashtra and the country.
The association has submitted a representation to government requesting a one-month extension of the license fee payment deadline from March 31st to April 30. In the alternative, the association has proposed a staggered payment mechanism, allowing the annual license fee to be paid in four quarterly instalments by December end.
“The situation on the ground remains critical, with approximately 30 to 35 per cent of hotels and restaurants currently shut, owing to a near complete halt in LPG supply from distributors. Establishments that continue to operate are doing so under curtailed hours and restricted menus, optimising fuel usage to sustain operations. However, many of these establishments may also be forced to shut within the next 2 to 3 days if supplies are not restored,” said Pradeep Shetty, spokesperson, HRAWI.
Published on March 17, 2026
