Shimla, May 3 -- Alleging that the LPG price hike was "anticipated", Himachal Pradesh public work department (PWD) minister Vikramaditya Singh has expressed concern over its impact on the state's tourism-driven economy.

"This was anticipated. The prices were held back due to elections and increased as soon as polling ended. "This is bound to increase the burden on the hospitality sector, especially at a time when the peak tourist season is approaching," said the minister while speaking to media on Saturday.

He added that the increased cost would eventually be passed on to consumers, alleging that opportunities to procure cheaper oil were not effectively utilised, leading to additional financial burden on consumers.

Highlighting the imp...