महेन्द्र मुस्कान मगर 
Kathmandu — A devastating missile attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City has dealt a major blow to global energy supply. The attack has reduced Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity by 17 percent, raising serious concerns for import-dependent countries like India and Nepal.
QatarEnergy stated in an official release that the attacks carried out on the mornings of March 18 and 19, 2026 caused extensive damage to key production facilities. According to Minister of State for Energy Affairs and CEO of QatarEnergy, Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, full restoration of the damaged infrastructure could take between three to five years.
The estimated annual revenue loss stands at around 20 billion US dollars. This disruption poses a significant challenge for India, which imports nearly 47 percent of its total LNG from Qatar. Any gas shortage or price increase in India is likely to directly impact Nepal as well. Nepal imports 100 percent of its petroleum products and cooking gas from Indian Oil Corporation. If India is forced to procure LNG from the international market at higher prices due to reduced supply from Qatar, the increased cost will directly affect Nepal’s import prices, potentially leading to sharp rises in cooking gas and transportation fuel prices. Qatar is also a major destination for Nepali migrant workers. Attacks on industrial sectors raise concerns about the safety of thousands of Nepali laborers.
If Qatar’s economy slows down due to disruptions in the energy sector, it could impact employment and remittance inflows to Nepal, putting pressure on the country’s foreign currency reserves. Rising fuel prices will inevitably increase transportation costs, leading to higher prices of food and other essential commodities in the market. Economists warn that this will further strain Nepal’s economy, which is already under inflationary pressure. According to official sources in Qatar, the attack damaged LNG production “Train 4” and “Train 6,” which together produced 12.8 million tons annually. Additionally, the Pearl GTL facility, operated by Shell, also sustained damage.
This facility produces clean fuels and lubricants. Minister Al-Kaabi confirmed that the crisis will affect countries including India, China, South Korea, Italy, and Belgium. Qatar has also declared “force majeure” on some long-term contracts due to circumstances beyond its control. (ANI)
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