Gas Shortage Disrupts Operations at Murthal's Famed Dhaba Hub
Murthal in Sonepat, renowned as India's premier dhaba hub along NH-44, is grappling with significant operational hurdles due to a suspension in commercial gas supply. This disruption affects eateries, hotels, and restaurants, threatening the daily functioning of this bustling culinary corridor.
Impact on Dhaba Operations and Footfall Decline
While food prices have remained stable for now, the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders is beginning to strain daily operations. Compounding the issue, footfall has plummeted by nearly 50%, attributed to ongoing school examinations and travel disruptions linked to the Iran-Israel-US conflict. Typically, this period marks an off-season, with daily visitor numbers dropping to approximately 20,000-25,000, half of peak season figures.
Manjeet Singh, president of the GT Road Dhaba Association and owner of Jhilmil Dhaba, explained, "Bigger establishments are managing, but smaller dhabas are facing difficulties. They are gradually shifting to electric chulhas to cope, though food prices haven't increased yet." He noted that business traditionally slows in February and March due to exams, picks up from April to June, and dips again during the monsoon.
Shift to PNG and Electric Alternatives
Along the Murthal-Gannaur stretch, over 100 small and large dhabas operate. Approximately 20 major units have transitioned to piped natural gas (PNG) to mitigate the gas shortage. However, around 80 establishments still rely on LPG cylinders, facing mounting pressure.
Manoj Kumar, owner of Gulshan Dhaba and general secretary of the association, highlighted a potential pricing concern: "We've been informed that if dhabas use 100% PNG, only 80% will be supplied at normal rates, with the remaining 20% charged at revised rates. No major crisis has emerged yet, but vigilance is key."
Resham Singh, another dhaba owner, emphasized the struggles of units without PNG connections. "Many have been forced to adopt electric induction or chulhas due to the cylinder shortage. The government should ensure at least 50% supply of commercial cylinders to help dhaba owners survive," he urged.
Broader Implications for the Hospitality Sector
This gas shortage underscores broader challenges in India's hospitality sector, particularly in high-traffic areas like Murthal. The reliance on alternative energy sources such as PNG and electric options may become a new norm if supply issues persist. Stakeholders are calling for government intervention to stabilize commercial gas availability and support small businesses during this turbulent period.
The situation remains fluid, with dhaba owners closely monitoring supply chains and customer trends. As the peak season approaches in April, the industry hopes for resolutions to restore normalcy and boost the local economy.
