Uddhav Thackeray Slams Government as 40% of Mumbai Restaurants Close Due to Gas Shortage
Synopsis
Uddhav Thackeray criticizes the Maharashtra government over a severe LPG crisis, revealing that 40% of Mumbai's restaurants have shut down. He questions the government’s transparency and calls for urgent action as citizens face long queues for gas.
Key Takeaways
40% of restaurants in Mumbai have shut down due to gas shortages.
Uddhav Thackeray criticizes the Maharashtra government for lack of transparency.
The Central Government has prioritized domestic LPG supplies.
Fadnavis claims there is no gas shortage in Maharashtra.
Public concerns highlight a disconnect with government officials.
Mumbai, March 16 (NationPress) - Uddhav Thackeray, the former Chief Minister and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), fiercely criticized the Maharashtra government and the central authorities regarding the worsening LPG crisis.
He revealed that approximately 40% of Mumbai's restaurants have been compelled to close due to a critical shortage of gas cylinders.
In a media briefing, he challenged the government’s claims of no shortage, questioning why residents are forced to wait in long lines if that were true.
Thackeray highlighted a significant disconnect between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and the general populace.
He emphasized that the public is suffering and their issues are not being communicated to the “People’s Chief Minister,” indicating a system failure.
Thackeray also targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pressing for a response from the Centre regarding the effects of global tensions and rising inflation on Indian families.
In response, Fadnavis dismissed these accusations, claiming no gas shortage in the state and asserting that the opposition is stirring up fear. He noted that refineries are functioning at full capacity, production levels have increased, and there is no need for citizens to wait in queues.
Thackeray's statements come during a period of gas shortages linked to geopolitical strife in West Asia, which has disrupted international fuel supplies. To tackle this situation, the Central Government has enacted the Essential Commodities Act, prioritizing domestic LPG supply over commercial use.
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently assured Parliament of the security of domestic supply, although temporary limitations on commercial gas have been imposed to avert hoarding.
Adding to the criticism, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MP Supriya Sule called on the Centre to hold an all-party meeting to address the crisis.
She pointed out that the gas shortage has devastated the hospitality sector and strained household finances, demanding a concrete strategy from the government to alleviate the situation.
Point of View
As Uddhav Thackeray's critiques reveal deep concerns about the transparency and effectiveness of the current administration during an energy crisis.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Mumbai restaurants have closed due to the gas shortage?
Approximately 40% of Mumbai's restaurants have closed because of the LPG crisis.
Who criticized the Maharashtra government regarding the gas shortage?
Former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray criticized the Maharashtra government and the Centre over the LPG crisis.
What measures has the Central Government taken in response to the gas shortage?
The Central Government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to prioritize domestic LPG supply over commercial use.
Did the Maharashtra Chief Minister acknowledge the gas shortage?
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis denied any gas shortage in the state, claiming it was a rumor spread by the opposition.
What impact has the gas shortage had on the hospitality industry?
The gas shortage has severely affected the hospitality industry, leading to closures and financial strain.
