A shortage of commercial LPG cylinders linked to the conflict between Iran and Israel has started impacting paying guest accommodations across Bengaluru. In response, the PG Owners Welfare Association – Bangalore has issued temporary guidelines to help PG kitchens conserve fuel and continue providing meals to residents.

The association noted that PG facilities catering to a large number of people in the city are already facing difficulties due to limited availability of commercial cylinders.

Owners asked to cut gas usage

Under the advisory, PG operators have been urged to reduce the number of meals served on weekdays and limit dishes that require significant gas consumption. They have also been encouraged to adopt alternative cooking techniques where possible.

Arun Kumar, president of the association, said the shortage has begun affecting day-to-day kitchen operations. According to him, several PG owners have reported that obtaining commercial cylinders has become increasingly difficult, and restaurants are also struggling to maintain normal cooking schedules.

He added that association representatives from various parts of Bengaluru have held internal meetings to find ways to deal with the situation.

Temporary meal limits introduced

As part of the measures, PGs have been advised to serve only two meals a day from Monday to Friday and encourage residents to carry packed lunches when possible. On weekends, kitchens may provide three meals daily.

The association said these steps are meant to reduce LPG consumption while ensuring that residents still have access to basic meals.

High gas-consuming dishes removed from menu

PG kitchens have also been advised to avoid preparing items that require prolonged cooking on gas stoves. Foods such as dosa, puri and chapati have been temporarily removed from recommended menus.

Instead, PG operators have been encouraged to prepare rice-based meals including bisibelebath, chitranna and puliyogare. Other suggested options include salads, fruit-based dishes and meals made with ingredients that require minimal cooking.

Switch to electric cooking equipment

To further reduce reliance on LPG, PG owners have been asked to consider using electric appliances such as induction cooktops and electric rice cookers. Smaller PG establishments, in particular, have been advised to use large-capacity electric cookers that can prepare food for many residents while using less gas.

Shared kitchens suggested

Another idea proposed by the association involves collaborative cooking among nearby PGs. Under this arrangement, food could be prepared in one facility and then supplied to neighbouring accommodations, reducing the need for multiple kitchens to use gas simultaneously.

The association has also temporarily suspended self-cooking gas facilities for residents, meaning inmates cannot use personal gas cylinders inside PGs. However, induction stoves may still be used if required.

Government help sought

The association warned that the situation could become more challenging if the shortage continues for an extended period. According to Arun Kumar, PG operators might struggle to maintain food services if the supply disruption lasts for more than a couple of weeks.

The group has urged authorities to step in quickly, stressing that regular cylinder supply is essential for the functioning of PG kitchens across the city.

The association said its guidelines are temporary measures designed to ensure uninterrupted food service for residents while helping PG operators manage limited resources during the ongoing crisis.