Shares of Indian food delivery companies tumbled after restaurants reported severe disruptions due to a cooking gas shortage. The crisis stems from Middle East tensions that have disrupted gas supplies, forcing many eateries to scale back operations or temporarily close. This supply chain shock has sent investors fleeing from food delivery stocks.

Restaurant owners across India are struggling to secure cooking gas cylinders, with many reporting wait times of several days or being forced to pay inflated black-market prices. The shortage particularly affects smaller establishments that lack the infrastructure to switch to alternative fuels. Industry analysts warn that prolonged disruptions could force permanent closures.

The market reaction was swift and severe, with major food delivery platforms seeing their stock prices fall sharply. Investors are concerned about reduced order volumes and potential revenue losses as restaurants cut back on delivery services. Some companies have begun offering incentives to restaurants that can maintain operations despite the gas shortage, but the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain.