Black market thrives in Ataq amid gas shortage

SHABWA, Feb. 20 (YPA) – The city of Ataq, the capital of Shabwa governorate, has been experiencing a severe shortage of domestic gas, leading to soaring prices and the rise of the black market, while local authorities loyal to the Saudi-led coalition have failed to offer effective solutions

Local sources reported that the crisis has worsened significantly in recent weeks, with gas cylinders being sold at double the usual prices, far exceeding the financial capacity of low-income families, amid complaints of a lack of fair distribution mechanisms and weak market oversight.

Despite the suffering, pro-coalition local authorities, led by Governor Awadh bin Al-Wazir, who is loyal to the UAE, have failed to contain the crisis or take effective measures to regulate prices and curb the spread of the black market.

Residents of Ataq have also criticized the gas distribution committees, pointing out their failure to provide adequate quantities or prevent some merchants from monopolizing the product and selling it at high prices.

@E.Y.M