Rising Gas Prices Push India's Poor Back to Wood and Coal

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the war involving Iran, has severely disrupted global liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies, leading to soaring black-market prices in India. As a result, many low-income families in New Delhi are reverting to using wood and coal for cooking, which poses significant health risks and exacerbates air pollution in the already heavily polluted megacity. Sheela Kumari, a domestic helper, reported that the price of LPG cylinders has skyrocketed from 1,800-2,000 rupees ($19-$21) to 5,000 rupees ($53) on the black market, nearly equaling her monthly salary of 6,000 rupees. This dramatic increase has forced her and others to seek alternative, less clean cooking methods.

The Straits TimesIndia’s Poor Turn to Wood, Coal as Iran War Spikes Gas PricesReutersOil Price

The shift back to burning wood and coal not only threatens the health of families but also worsens air quality in New Delhi, which is frequently ranked among the world's most polluted cities. Burning these fuels indoors exposes families to high levels of smoke and toxic particles, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses, particularly among women and children who spend more time near cooking areas. Munni Bai, a neighbor of Kumari, who suffers from asthma, expressed her frustration at being forced back to using coal and wood despite having previously switched to cleaner energy sources for health reasons.

India’s Poor Turn to Wood, Coal as Iran War Spikes Gas PricesThe Straits TimesReutersOil Price

In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged state governments to combat black marketing and has reassured citizens that India's energy supplies remain stable. The Indian government has promoted the "Ujjwala" scheme, which aims to provide over 100 million subsidized LPG connections to poor households. However, many migrant workers lack the necessary documentation to access these subsidies and are thus reliant on informal markets, where hoarding has driven prices even higher.

India’s Poor Turn to Wood, Coal as Iran War Spikes Gas Prices

Activists and experts have criticized the government's handling of the situation, noting that while there is no significant shortage of LPG, the high prices are a result of increased hoarding and black-market activities. Deepak from the Centre for Advocacy and Research highlighted that many migrants depend on black-market cylinders, with prices escalating two to three times. This situation reflects a broader issue of access to clean energy for marginalized communities in India.

India’s Poor Turn to Wood, Coal as Iran War Spikes Gas Prices

The return to using dirtier fuels complicates India's energy landscape, especially as the country grapples with its commitments to decarbonization. While India is making strides in renewable energy, coal remains a critical component of its energy mix, accounting for approximately 75% of electricity generation. The government is under pressure to balance immediate energy needs with long-term sustainability goals, as the reliance on coal continues to pose challenges for both health and environmental quality.

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• “The next best option for us was going back to wood and coal.” — Sheela Kumari, Domestic Helper

The Straits Times

• “Gas is too expensive,” she said.” — Munni Bai, Resident of Madanpur Khadar

The Straits Times

• “Many migrants depend on black-market cylinders, and prices have gone up two to three times” — Deepak, Centre for Advocacy and Research

The Straits Times

As India navigates the complex interplay of energy security, economic development, and environmental sustainability, the current crisis underscores the urgent need for effective policies that ensure access to clean energy for all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

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