Syria is expected to see a gradual resolution to the household gas shortage that has affected most provinces in recent days, following the arrival of new shipments and the start of unloading operations. Authorities say additional emergency measures are also underway to strengthen strategic reserves and address structural challenges in the sector.
Weather Conditions Behind the Shortage
Energy Minister Muhammad al-Bashir said the recent shortage of household gas was caused by adverse weather conditions that delayed ship docking and unloading operations at port facilities. He said technical teams have begun unloading the first vessel, with a second ship expected to berth within 48 hours.
Quantities will begin reaching distribution centers gradually, with full stability anticipated across all provinces in the coming days. Bashir described the disruption as a temporary logistical issue beyond operational control, noting that gas supplies rely heavily on maritime shipments that are vulnerable to weather conditions.
New Storage Facilities and Enhanced Oversight
The minister also announced plans to equip new storage facilities to reinforce strategic reserves and prevent similar bottlenecks in the future. He emphasized that the ministry’s priority is ensuring energy market stability through structural, long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.
He added that specialized teams have been instructed to intensify monitoring of distribution centers and markets to prevent monopolistic practices and price manipulation. Legal measures will be taken against violators. Bashir stressed that gas supplies are available and warned against attempts to exploit the temporary shortage for unlawful profit.
170,000 Cylinders Daily Amid Infrastructure Challenges
Safwan Ahmad, director of institutional communication at the Syrian Petroleum Company (SPC), said the sector has faced rising demand alongside structural challenges, including limited storage capacity necessitating smaller import carriers and aging infrastructure requiring gradual rehabilitation.
He confirmed filling plants continue operating at regular capacity, with approximately 170,000 gas cylinders filled daily nationwide, including about 75,000 in Damascus, reflecting ongoing efforts to meet demands.
Ahmad said a gas carrier loaded with 4,000 tons arrived yesterday and is currently being unloaded. Another vessel carrying 2,600 tons is expected to arrive tomorrow. In addition, land-based supplies are set to begin at a rate of 200 tons per day, which will further strengthen reserves in the coming days.
Rehabilitation Plans and Market Inspection
The company is pursuing rehabilitation programs for major facilities, including the Conoco Gas Plant, Syria’s largest natural gas plant, upgrading infrastructure, reconstructing large-capacity storage tanks and rehabilitating a maritime dock to accommodate larger vessels. These steps are intended to enhance long-term stability and support local production.
Ahmad also acknowledged reports of monopolistic practices and price increases in some areas, noting that inspection patrols affiliated with the state fuel distributor have been deployed to regulate the market and hold violators accountable. Several provinces have recently witnessed crowding at distribution centers due to the shortage, as authorities intensify efforts to restore stable supplies and improve service delivery.
