India, March 23 -- The ongoing shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders has not only impacted the operations of restaurants, snack centres and mess services, it has also led to a struggle to retain staff amid growing uncertainty.

Industry players estimate that nearly 20 to 30% of eateries across the city have shut down temporarily while many others are operating intermittently - opening only on days when LPG cylinders are available. The disruption has not only affected daily business but also led to a drop in customer footfalls, putting pressure on small and mid-sized establishments that depend on steady income.

Restaurant owners in many areas say that the situation has become unpredictable. Rahul Kamthe, who runs Ashoka Sout...