Maharashtra Hospitality Sector Seeks License Fee Relief Amid LPG Shortage Crisis
HRAWI Urges Extension and Staggered Payment Option for Annual License Fee
New Delhi, March 18: A leading industry body representing hotel and restaurant owners has approached the Maharashtra government, seeking urgent relief in the payment of annual license fees as a severe shortage of commercial LPG continues to disrupt operations across the hospitality sector.The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) (HRAWI) has submitted a formal representation to Deputy Chief Minister and State Excise Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, requesting an extension of the license fee payment deadline from March 31 to April 30.
Industry Pushes for Quarterly Payment Mechanism
In addition to the extension request, the association has proposed a staggered payment structure to ease financial pressure on businesses. Under this proposal, the annual license fee could be paid in four quarterly installments scheduled for March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.LPG Supply Disruption Forces Widespread Closures
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, HRAWI stated that nearly 30 to 35 percent of hotels and restaurants have already shut down due to an almost complete halt in LPG supply from distributors.Establishments that remain operational are functioning under constraints, including reduced working hours and limited menus, as they attempt to conserve fuel and continue serving customers.
More Closures Likely Without Immediate Intervention
The association warned that the crisis could escalate further, with many more establishments at risk of shutting down within the next two to three days if LPG supplies are not restored promptly.HRAWI spokesperson Pradeep Shetty emphasized the urgency of government intervention, stating that immediate relief in the form of an extension or staggered payment plan would help businesses manage the ongoing liquidity challenges and sustain operations during the disruption.
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