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Karkala: A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has forced many hotels in Karkala to switch to traditional firewood stoves for cooking.

The shortage is linked to disruptions in gas supply following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Due to the irregular supply of commercial cylinders, most hotels in the town have been left with no option but to use firewood stoves as an alternative.

There are more than 200 hotels and small canteens operating across urban and rural areas of Karkala. While some small establishments have managed to continue operations using firewood stoves, larger hotels are facing serious difficulties.

Hotel owners in the town said a major challenge is the lack of space to set up firewood stoves in urban areas. Preparing certain dishes, especially Chinese food, also requires high-heat gas burners, making it difficult for cooks to prepare such items on traditional stoves.

Demand for firewood increases

The demand for firewood has increased as hotels, catering services and marriage halls require large quantities for cooking. Timber depots, sawmill owners and small firewood traders in the taluk said they are receiving more orders than usual due to the increased demand.

Domestic gas supply also affected

Along with the shortage of commercial cylinders, domestic LPG distribution has also seen delays. Many households are booking cylinders in advance due to concerns over supply, leading to a surge in demand.

Gas agencies said the high number of bookings has made it difficult to supply cylinders on time, resulting in delivery delays compared to normal days.

Nithyananda Pai said that about 20 per cent of commercial cylinder supply is currently being distributed. However, this supply is mainly reserved for essential services such as hospitals, hostels and school meal programmes.

He clarified that domestic LPG cylinder distribution is continuing as usual, but deliveries are taking longer because bookings have increased by nearly 300 per cent.