BackECONOMY
Hotels close in Kochi as KHRA calls 24-hour state-wide strike over LPG price hike
Restaurants and hotels stayed shut during a 24-hour statewide strike by the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association to protest hikes in commercial LPG cylinder prices. Eateries remained closed, causing hunger among hundreds, while KHRA and AKCA planned further protests and a torchlight demonstration.
Why It Matters
The strike underscores the hospitality sector's vulnerability to energy price increases and its potential impact on consumer access and prices.
Timeline
2 Events
AKCA to organise state-wide protest and kitchen closure strike; torchlight demonstration planned
May 6, 2026
The All Kerala Caterers Association (AKCA) announced a state-wide protest and kitchen closure strike against the LPG price hike. A torchlight demonstration is planned from Vanchi Square to Menaka Junction in Kochi on Thursday evening, and catering and kitchen establishments are to protest in front of district and Central government institutions on Friday demanding a rollback of the hike.
KHRA token strike in Kerala; eateries closed; protest at IOC Panampilly Nagar, Kochi
May 6, 2026
Hundreds went hungry as eateries remained closed on Wednesday as part of the 24-hour state-wide strike called by the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHRA) to protest the hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices. Hotel outlets closed, with protest marches and dharnas in front of petroleum companies and Central government institutions across the state. The march and dharna at the IOC office in Panampilly Nagar, Kochi, was inaugurated by KHRA State president G. Jayapal. KHRA office-bearers expressed regret for public inconvenience and said the move is intended to draw public and government attention to the issue. They urged prices to be reduced and warned that prices could rise further if the hike is not rolled back.