Thiruvananthapuram, 30 March (H.S.):In a significant move aimed at easing supply constraints in the hospitality sector, the Kerala government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders and issued orders to supply 13,433 cylinders per day to hotels and related establishments.

The decision follows the enhancement of the state’s commercial cylinder share to 66 per cent.

At present, Kerala receives around 26,160 commercial LPG cylinders daily. The government has prioritised essential and critical sectors in the distribution process, including hospitals, schools, crematoriums, IT and industrial canteens, community kitchens, subsidised “Subhiksha” hotels, old-age homes, and orphanages.

Hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and pharmaceutical manufacturing units have been classified under the “semi-essential services” category. This segment, which also includes catering units, fisheries, and food processing industries, has been allocated 62 per cent of the total supply. Similarly, key industrial sectors such as steel, textiles, automobiles, and plastic manufacturing have also been earmarked a 62 per cent share.

District-wise distribution data indicates that Ernakulam receives the highest share of LPG cylinders at 19.39 per cent, while Kasaragod has the lowest allocation at 1.17 per cent.

Officials noted that the daily allocation has increased by over 5,000 cylinders compared to last week, a step expected to significantly ease the crisis faced by the hotel and hospitality industry.

To ensure smooth implementation, oil companies and gas agencies have been directed to strictly adhere to the quota system for each sector. A grievance redressal mechanism has also been put in place. Hotel owners and association representatives can report issues through a toll-free number at the Secretariat war room. Authorities have assured that complaints will be addressed promptly with immediate corrective action.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman