Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : LPG crisis shrinks Mumbai’s idli supply and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
The ongoing LPG shortage in Maharashtra is beginning to disrupt thousands of small industries in Dharavi — Asia’s largest slum — with even the supply of idlis to Mumbai’s five-star hotels reportedly affected.
Spread across about 600 acres and home to nearly a million people, Dharavi hosts thousands of small and medium enterprises engaged in leather processing, pottery, recycling and food production. Among these are several businesses that produce idli and dosa batter for eateries across the city.
Industry representatives say if idli batter production slows down, the impact will be felt not only on Mumbai’s streets but also in upscale restaurants and hotels. At present, fewer idlis are reportedly reaching five-star hotels from Dharavi because of the gas shortage.
According to A.P. Srinivasan, adviser to the Dharavi Ann Padarth Utpadak Unnati Sangh, there are around six major food units in Dharavi that each produce nearly 1 lakh idlis daily. However, the LPG crisis has begun to affect their operations. “If the situation does not improve, workers employed in these units may start returning to their villages,” Srinivasan said.
The shortage is also affecting traditional pottery units. Several potters rely on LPG cylinders to fire clay products, and disruptions in supply are threatening their livelihoods.
Across Dharavi and neighbouring industrial areas of Mumbai, the scarcity of commercial LPG cylinders has begun to hit small manufacturing units, fabrication workshops and factories. Industry representatives warn that automobile, steel and engineering units in the Mumbai region could also suffer significant losses if supplies do not stabilise.
Statewide, production in nearly 2,500 industrial units could be affected, according to industry estimates. Business groups have urged the government to urgently restore normal gas supplies or arrange alternative fuel sources, warning that the crisis could hinder the state’s industrial growth.
Meanwhile, the gas shortage continues to disrupt daily life across Maharashtra, including in Mumbai. Long queues remain common outside gas agencies, and reports have emerged of heated arguments and even scuffles involving people waiting to obtain cylinders.
Opposition parties have stepped up their criticism of the ruling Mahayuti government over the issue, arguing that the shortage is forcing small hotels, restaurants and catering businesses to shut down operations.