India Faces Gas Shortages Due to Strait of Hormuz Closure Amid Middle East Tensions

Long queues have formed at refineries and LPG distribution centers in India as energy shortages linked to Middle East tensions disrupt gas access.

The shortages stem from a halt in maritime activities in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for a significant portion of the world's oil and gas. Iran has announced it will keep the strait closed, resulting in about one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies being halted.

Chotlal Sony, an Indian citizen, said he had been waiting in line for about an hour and a half and was unable to order gas via the service phone number. Another citizen added, "The situation must return to normal. Our festivals are coming. Eid is near. What should we do? We can't cook without gas and we'll starve. We are fasting and suffering under the scorching sun. The government advertised in newspapers that you should apply for gas 25 days in advance, but even through that number, we can't apply."

India issued an emergency order earlier this week, redirecting gas supplies from non-essential sectors to essential consumers to mitigate the impact of halted liquefied natural gas shipments from the strait.

Analysts warn that prolongation of the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran could lead to a serious energy crisis in India, with rising oil prices affecting agriculture, transportation and services. Rajan Kumar, professor of international studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said, "If the war becomes longer and the probability of its continuation is very high, India will face energy problems."

On Saturday, Iran allowed two Indian-flagged liquefied gas carriers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could ease part of India's gas crisis. Experts note India's heavy reliance on Middle East energy imports and urge the government to secure alternative supplies.