Eating out in Punjab could become significantly more expensive from next weekend after the Punjab Hotel and Restaurant Association proposed a 20 per cent increase in food prices across the state. The move follows a steep rise in commercial LPG cylinder prices, which has increased operating costs for restaurants, dhabas, hotels, and other food businesses. Consumers who regularly dine outside are likely to feel the impact if the proposal is approved.

Association president Amarveer Singh said a meeting has been scheduled for Monday to arrive at a unanimous decision on revised pricing. If approved, new rate cards are expected to be introduced from the coming weekend. Punjab has more than 80,000 hotels and restaurants, meaning the price revision could affect a large portion of the food service industry and customers across urban and rural areas alike.

The proposed increase comes after state-run oil companies raised commercial LPG cylinder prices by Rs 993 on May 1. Industry representatives say cooking gas is one of the biggest recurring expenses for food establishments, and such a sharp jump has made it difficult for many businesses to absorb the additional cost. Owners also point to rising expenses linked to raw materials, transport, labour, and electricity.

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Customers may face added pressure because many eateries had already increased menu prices in March and April during an LPG shortage. If another round of hikes is implemented, dining out could become noticeably costlier for families, workers, and students who depend on restaurants for daily meals. Traders say the final decision will depend on Monday’s meeting, but many expect at least some price increase to take effect soon.

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