An ongoing armed conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States in West Asia is now entering its second week. Currently, it is creating downstream disruptions in India's liquefied petroleum gas supply chain. As India relies heavily on West Asian nations for a significant share of its LPG imports, the war is generating logistical pressures that are beginning to affect households and commercial food establishments across the country. Cylinder delivery delays and commercial LPG shortages have been reported across several Indian cities. It causes disruptions in shipping, higher fuel costs, and supply chain strain. Here are some other options households and businesses can use.
Piped gas and electric options:
Piped natural gas is delivered through underground pipes and offers a continuous supply. Once installed, it is usually cheaper in the long run than LPG cylinders. For electric alternatives, infrared and ceramic cooktops are compatible with aluminium, steel, and clay cookware. Induction stoves generally use electromagnetic heating. These require ferromagnetic cookware such as cast iron or induction-rated steel.
Compact appliances:
Air fryers and microwave ovens are being considered as supplemental cooking tools during the shortage. Air fryers can be used for multiple purposes, including frying, roasting, grilling, and baking. It requires minimal oil. Microwave ovens are also helpful for reheating, steaming, and certain quick-preparation tasks.
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Renewable cooking methods:
Solar cookers basically use direct sunlight and require no fuel. But its use is limited because it is weather-dependent. Biogas systems convert organic household waste into combustible gas, which is also a significant alternative. These are increasingly adopted in rural and semi-urban areas of India. The conflict is affecting India’s energy supply and highlights the country’s strong dependence on West Asia for LPG imports.
