Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has begun preparations to supply firewood for commercial use amid fears of a worsening gas shortage caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal described the situation as a crisis, warning that businesses may need alternative fuel sources if LPG supplies remain disrupted.
Middle East Conflict Disrupts Gas Supply
The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted nearly 30 percent of India’s gas imports. Tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz has stalled, cutting off about 60 million standard cubic metres per day (mmscmd) of gas from the Middle East. India meets half of its daily consumption of 191 mmscmd through imports, making the disruption a serious concern.
Uttarakhand’s Strategic Response
To mitigate the impact, the state has directed the Uttarakhand Forest Development Corporation to ensure firewood availability. This measure is intended to support hotels, restaurants, and other businesses that rely heavily on LPG and commercial cylinders. Minister Subodh Uniyal said, “With war-like conditions prevailing in several Middle Eastern countries, a shortage of gas cannot be ruled out.”
National Gas Allocation Reprioritized
At the national level, the government has reprioritized gas allocation. Household cooking gas, piped natural gas, and transport sectors using CNG will take precedence over non-essential industries. A gazette notification from the oil ministry ordered available gas to be diverted from non-priority sectors to key users, ensuring uninterrupted supply for families and transport.
Impact on Businesses
Hotels, restaurants, and catering services in Uttarakhand are among the sectors most affected by the shortage of commercial cylinders. The state’s move to prepare firewood supplies is seen as a temporary solution to keep businesses running if the crisis deepens.
Commercial establishments may face increasing challenges
While households and transport sectors are protected under the new allocation rules, commercial establishments may face increasing challenges. Uttarakhand’s proactive step to secure firewood highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need for alternative energy sources until gas supplies stabilize.