Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: A looming shortage of commercial LPG cylinders could force nearly 50 per cent of hotels in Goa to shut down, MLAs warned in the Legislative Assembly, raising serious concerns about the impact on the state’s hospitality sector.
During Zero Hour, MLA Kedar Naik flagged the alarming shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, stating that restaurants, small businesses, trawler owners and the hospitality industry could be severely affected if supplies are not restored immediately.
The issue triggered a discussion in the House, with Calangute MLA Michael Lobo warning that if fresh stocks are not supplied by Wednesday afternoon, nearly half of Goa’s hotels may be forced to suspend operations.
Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said he was in touch with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and assured that efforts are underway to restore LPG supply to the state.
Sawant informed the House that the Government of India has formed a committee to review LPG cylinder stocks across the country and ensure a minimum reserve of 15 days. He added that the Centre has also sought a detailed report from Goa on the availability of LPG cylinders.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over a recent circular issued by the Centre regarding restrictions on commercial cylinders and said he would take up the matter with the concerned Secretary and the Union Petroleum Minister.
Lobo suggested that India should explore alternative sources of LPG, including imports from Australia, to maintain stable supplies and prevent disruptions to the hospitality industry.
