Impact of Global LNG Supply Disruptions on India's Natural Gas Pressure
Current Challenges in India's Natural Gas Supply
Recent reports indicate that the initial issues with LPG cylinder availability have escalated into a noticeable decline in pressure for piped natural gas (PNG) connections in many Indian households, particularly during peak cooking times. This situation is linked to ongoing developments at Ras Laffan in Qatar, the largest LNG export terminal globally, and the geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which are beginning to impact daily life in India.
Significance for India
India's reliance on West Asia for natural gas is substantial:
- Between 41% to 47% of India's LNG imports typically originate from Qatar, primarily sourced from Ras Laffan.
- More than 50% of LNG shipments and nearly 90% of LPG imports transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
Any disruptions in these regions can swiftly affect India's energy supply.
Current Situation
There has been a significant decline in LNG imports, with March figures showing only 1.68 million tonnes, a 12.5% decrease from February. Qatar's contribution plummeted from approximately 40% to a mere 3.6%. Industrial sectors are experiencing the most immediate impact, with PNG supplies reduced to 55-65% of normal levels, leading to price surges; in some areas, industrial PNG costs have exceeded ₹115 per standard cubic metre.
Effects on Households
While the government is focusing on domestic users, residents in cities like Delhi-NCR have reported diminished flame intensity and extended cooking durations during peak hours. A resident from Noida remarked, “The flame has noticeably weakened over the past few days, particularly in the mornings and evenings.” Although the situation remains manageable for now, experts caution that extended disruptions could strain city gas networks.
Expert Insights
An anonymous industry expert noted, “City gas networks operate on a delicate supply-demand balance. Prolonged disruptions in LNG shipments from Qatar will first affect industrial supply. If this continues, domestic PNG supplies may also face challenges.” The expert highlighted that the government's recent initiatives to expand PNG connections have led to a rapid increase in demand, which the existing pipeline infrastructure may not adequately support. As of January 2026, India had 1.65 crore PNG connections, with 1.03 crore currently active, and an additional 3.6 lakh connections added since March.
Government Actions
Authorities are addressing the situation through various strategies:
- Diversifying LNG sources from the USA, Australia, and Africa
- Increasing purchases of spot cargoes
- Boosting domestic gas production
- Prioritizing supply to households and critical sectors
Public sector entities like Petronet LNG and oil marketing firms are adjusting shipment schedules to mitigate the supply gap. This issue is not merely a temporary setback; India's growing dependence on imported gas for cooking, transportation, fertilizer production, and industrial use is becoming increasingly evident. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has already highlighted vulnerabilities in oil supply, and the current Middle East crisis is revealing similar issues for gas.
At present, the situation remains stable, with households still receiving adequate supply. However, if disruptions at Ras Laffan and in the Strait of Hormuz persist for an extended period, the impact could extend from industrial sectors to residential kitchens nationwide. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this situation.