The domestic gas crisis in Aden, Yemen's temporary capital, has intensified for the third consecutive week, leading to prolonged queues at distribution points and a sharp increase in cylinder prices. Residents are facing significant difficulties in obtaining cooking gas, exacerbating daily hardships. On Wednesday, large numbers of citizens were observed lining up at gas stations and distribution centers across various areas of Aden. The persistent shortage and delays in the arrival of allocated gas supplies have made it increasingly challenging for households to secure this essential commodity. The crisis has also impacted the transportation sector, with drivers waiting for extended periods at gas filling stations to obtain sufficient fuel for their vehicles. The slow filling process and limited supply are contributing to the disruption. The scarcity of gas in the official market has fueled the growth of the black market. Citizens report that a 20-liter gas cylinder is being sold unofficially for approximately 18,500 Yemeni Rials, a price significantly higher than official rates, due to the difficulty in acquiring it through authorized channels. Residents expressed concerns to Akhbar agency that the ongoing crisis could lead to further price hikes in gas and consequently increase the overall cost of living and transportation, particularly as a substantial portion of the population relies on domestic gas. Coinciding with the fuel crisis, some vehicle drivers have begun increasing transportation fares between Aden's districts, from 500 to 700 Rials. Citizens attribute this rise to a perceived lack of official oversight on transportation fees, which further burdens employees, students, and other daily commuters. They are calling for urgent government intervention to regulate prices and address the root causes of the gas shortage. Citizens hold the responsible authorities accountable for resolving distribution bottlenecks, ensuring the timely delivery of allocated supplies to consumers, and strengthening oversight of sales outlets and markets to curb speculation, hoarding, and the diversion of gas to the black market. Residents of Aden are demanding immediate and sustainable solutions to the gas crisis to ensure consistent supply, stable prices, and an end to the arduous queues and escalating living costs. |
