A severe domestic gas supply crisis has intensified in the northeastern Yemeni city of Marib in recent days, exacerbating the hardship for residents and internally displaced persons who rely on gas as their primary cooking fuel. Local sources reported that armed tribal blockades on roads leading to the city have obstructed the passage of gas transport trucks. This disruption has led to a sharp decline in available quantities and widespread congestion at distribution points. Marib hosts approximately three million displaced individuals who fled the conflict instigated by Houthi militias. Consequently, any supply disruption rapidly impacts living conditions, given the population's dependence on gas for household cooking. Furthermore, a significant segment of drivers utilize gas as vehicle fuel due to its lower cost compared to gasoline. Circulating video footage depicts long queues of citizens waiting for hours to obtain gas cylinders, while some families have resorted to using firewood and alternative cooking methods. Security sources have accused government authorities of failing to take sufficient measures to contain the blockades and secure supply lines, despite the recurrence of these incidents and their direct impact on the city's stability. Marib serves as the primary source of gas supply for extensive areas of Yemen. This situation is further complicated by the ongoing suspension of pumping operations from facilities in Shabwah Governorate, making any disruption to transport lines particularly critical. The repercussions of this crisis have previously extended to other regions, including the temporary capital Aden, where similar supply shortages were recorded in past months, according to local sources. |
