Full Breakdown
Impact of Middle East Conflict on Cooking Gas Supply in Nepal and India
3/14/2026, 8:19:02 PM
Supply Disruptions Triggered by Regional Conflict
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, has significantly disrupted the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in both Nepal and India. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for oil and gas shipments, has seen a halt in traffic, leading to increased energy and transport costs. This situation has prompted Nepal to implement measures such as selling half-filled gas cylinders to manage the available supply and curb panic buying among consumers.
Nepal's Response to LPG Shortages
In response to the tightening gas supply, the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) announced on March 13, 2023, that it would begin rationing LPG by refilling only half of consumers' empty cylinders. This decision aims to alleviate the panic buying that has led to long queues at gas depots across the country. NOC officials have reassured the public that there is no actual shortage of gas, stating that Nepal requires approximately 45,000 cylinders of cooking gas each month, and supplies remain stable despite the regional tensions.
India's Struggle with Cooking Gas Supply
India, the world's second-largest importer of LPG, is also grappling with severe shortages. The conflict has led to emergency measures, including the invocation of powers to maximize LPG production and diversify import sources beyond the Gulf region. Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri confirmed that the country is sourcing more LPG from the United States, Norway, Canada, and Russia to mitigate the impact of the conflict. However, the situation remains critical, with many restaurants and food businesses reporting significant disruptions in their operations due to limited gas availability.
Consumer Impact and Adaptations
The shortages have forced consumers in both countries to adapt. In India, many eateries have altered their menus to accommodate the reduced gas supply, with some establishments serving only basic meals. Students in hostels are particularly affected, as they rely on LPG for cooking and face challenges due to the closure of black-market suppliers. In Nepal, consumers have reported difficulties in obtaining cooking gas, with many waiting for hours at depots, only to return empty-handed.
Criticism and Concerns
Critics have raised concerns about the government's handling of the situation. In India, the National Restaurant Association has described the gas supply crisis as "dire," indicating that many food businesses are struggling to remain operational. In Nepal, despite assurances from officials, the panic among consumers suggests a lack of confidence in the government's ability to manage the supply effectively.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
Officials from both countries have emphasized that the supply of LPG is secure and that measures are being taken to ensure that essential services are prioritized. Puri stated that India has sufficient gas production and supply arrangements to sustain its needs even in the event of a prolonged conflict. Meanwhile, the NOC in Nepal continues to monitor the situation closely, aiming to stabilize the market and restore consumer confidence.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our supply remains intact but the war in the Middle East, and news of shortages, has caused resourceful consumers to buy more than they need,” — Manoj Kumar Thakur, Nepal Oil Corporation Spokesman
- “The situation is dire. Cooking gas simply isn't available,” — Manpreet Singh, National Restaurant Association of India
- “We are getting regular supply of fuel including the cooking gas according to our demands,” — Chandika Prasad Bhatta, Executive Director, Nepal Oil Corporation
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to have far-reaching effects on the supply chains of essential commodities like cooking gas, prompting both Nepal and India to take urgent measures to address the crisis.
