Summary
Shipping disruptions due to a war involving Iran have led to a gas shortage in India, making the country consider using more polluting fuels like coal and biomass. These disruptions have especially affected the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) which is widely used for cooking in India. The government is temporarily allowing the use of these dirtier fuels to manage the shortage.
Key Facts
- A war involving Iran has disrupted shipping, causing gas shortages in India.
- The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for oil and gas, has seen halted ship movements.
- India heavily relies on LPG imports, with significant disruption affecting supply.
- India has approved extra kerosene for low-income households to manage the shortage.
- The government is allowing temporary use of biomass and coal to handle the crisis.
- Returning to these fuels can worsen indoor air pollution due to harmful emissions.
- Urban areas in India might face more difficulty adapting due to fewer alternatives.
- India's energy system is heavily coal-dependent, with 79% of domestic energy from coal.
