Iran Conflict May Stop Trucks and Buses as Urea Shortage Risk Grows

By Jony Shekhawat | Published Date : March 25, 2026

Rising global tensions may impact transport operations as essential vehicle inputs face supply pressure.

The Iran conflict is not only pushing fuel prices higher, but it is also creating a serious risk for India’s transport system. A lesser-known issue is now coming into focus — shortage of industrial urea. This chemical is very important for modern diesel vehicles like trucks, buses, and even some mini trucks.

Even if diesel is available, vehicles may still stop running. The problem is not fuel anymore, it is whether engines will even start.

India’s Heavy Dependence on Imports

Table of Contents

1. India’s Heavy Dependence on Imports

2. Why Urea Is Critical for Modern Diesel Vehicles

3. Engine Will Not Start Without DEF

4. Impact on Logistics and Supply Chain

5. Time Is Limited for the Industry

6. Final Words

► Read More: Group asks government to increase ethanol use and support flex-fuel vehicles

India depends on imports for nearly 50% to 60% of the industrial-grade urea used in vehicles. A lot of the supply comes from trade hubs, like Egypt and Dubai. The Strait of Hormuz is having problems because of the fighting that is going on. This route is critical for global shipments. As supply chains break, India is finding it difficult to restock urea.

This has made the entire logistics sector, especially trucks and commercial vehicles, highly vulnerable.

Why Urea Is Critical for Modern Diesel Vehicles

Modern BS6 diesel engines use a system called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). This fluid is made using urea and is necessary to control pollution. It is injected into the exhaust system to reduce harmful gases. Without it, vehicles cannot meet emission rules.

This system is used in:

• Heavy trucks
• Long-route buses
• Large diesel vehicles
• Some high-capacity mini trucks

So, urea is now directly linked to daily transport operations.

Engine Will Not Start Without DEF

The big problem with BS6 vehicles is the safety system that comes with them. So if the DEF tank in your BS6 vehicle runs out of fuel the engine will just not start. This is something that has to be in all the diesel vehicles now. The safety system in BS6 vehicles is really strict about this. 

If the DEF tank is empty, in your BS6 vehicle you will not be able to start the engine of your BS6 vehicle. It means:

1. Trucks cannot run without DEF
2. Buses may stop operations
3. Logistics movement can freeze

Even though DEF does not need frequent refilling, the current shortage means there is no way to refill once stocks are over.

Impact on Logistics and Supply Chain

If the shortage continues, a large number of trucks, buses, and mini trucks may go off the road. This can directly affect supply chains across India.

• Possible impacts include:
• Delay in delivery of goods
• Reduced movement of food and essentials
• Higher transport costs
• Pressure on small transport operators

A large-scale shutdown of diesel vehicles can slow down the entire economy.

Time Is Limited for the Industry

Industry bodies have already warned that urea supplies may not last beyond early April 2026. While some stock is still available, there is no clear plan for quick imports.
Alternative supply routes are uncertain and may take time. This makes the situation more serious for transport companies.

Right now, the biggest concern is not fertilizer production but the risk to logistics movement.

Final Words

This situation shows a new kind of risk for India’s transport sector. In modern vehicles, fuel alone is not enough. Chemicals like urea have become equally important.
If supply does not improve soon, many trucks, buses, and mini trucks could stop working. And once logistics stops, the impact will be felt across every part of the economy.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Commercial Vehicles

Q1. What is the average mileage of a commercial truck in India?

Ans. Most commercial trucks give around 3 to 6 km per litre, depending on load, road conditions, and engine type.

Q2. What is the price range of mini trucks in India?

Ans. Mini trucks usually start from around ₹4 lakh and can go up to ₹8 lakh, depending on brand, payload capacity, and features.

Q3. Which fuel options are available in commercial vehicles?

Ans. Commercial vehicles are available in diesel, CNG, petrol, electric, and even LNG options based on usage and route requirements.

Q4. What is the seating capacity of a typical commercial pickup?

Ans. Most pickup trucks seat 1 or 2 passengers, depending on the cabin design.

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