Commercial LPG cylinder up Rs 10 ahead of Diwali, eating out likely to cost more

With only a few days left for Diwali, oil companies have raised the price of commercial LPG cylinders by Rs 10 from November 1. The increase will directly affect the costs of hotels and restaurants, and eating out is likely to become more expensive.

The price of the 14.2-kg domestic cylinder is unchanged, which brings some relief to homemakers who cook at home.

The new rates for the 19-kg commercial cylinder, city-wise: in Delhi it is up Rs 10 at Rs 2,820. In Mumbai, after a Rs 10 rise, it costs Rs 2,774.50. In Kolkata it is up Rs 10 at Rs 2,964. In Chennai the rise was Rs 11.50, taking the cylinder to Rs 2,994.50. In Bengaluru it is up Rs 10 at Rs 2,908, in Patna up Rs 10 at Rs 3,110.50 and in Lucknow up Rs 10 at Rs 2,942.50.

The price of this cylinder was cut a few weeks ago but has now been raised again. On May 1, the price of the commercial cylinder had risen by nearly Rs 1,000. The 19-kg cylinder had become Rs 993 costlier, going above Rs 3,000, and traders were troubled. Prices were later reduced once, and people felt rates would hold. But just before Diwali, a fresh Rs 10 increase has come.

Rs 10 may sound small, but for hoteliers it is a significant cost. A large hotel uses 10 to 15 cylinders a day, so its monthly expense rises by Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000. In the end, this cost is recovered from customers. Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner, eating out is set to become costlier.

Diwali is the biggest season for the hotel business. People go out shopping and eat out with their families. If gas becomes costlier at such a time, traders' profits fall. Many small roadside stall owners and vada pav cart vendors also have to use this same commercial cylinder. Even a Rs 10 increase is quite heavy for them.

The unchanged domestic cylinder price offers some relief for now. But with commercial rates rising repeatedly, eating out appears set to get costlier in the coming days. Along with the cost of making Diwali sweets and savouries, the hotel bill is also set to rise.