KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Valley is facing a severe shortage of LPG as landslides triggered by heavy rains have disrupted supply routes on major highways.
The interruption in regular transportation from bottling plants in the Terai region has led to long queues and increased pressure on gas dealers across the capital.
Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) spokesperson Manoj Kumar Thakur stated that the disruption of road networks has hindered the regular cycle of sending empty cylinders to the Terai for refilling and bringing them back to the valley.
The corporation is currently utilizing alternative routes, including the Kanti Highway, to maintain the supply chain. Thakur assured that supplies would normalize once road conditions improve.
Industry operators noted that alternative routes are narrow and prone to further landslides, making it difficult to transport large volumes of gas. The logistical challenges have significantly increased transit times, particularly at night. Kumar Rajbhandari, deputy head of the Salt Trading Corporation, said that efforts are underway to divert gas bullets to other plants to ensure a continuous supply and to manage distribution through a token system.
Consumers have been seen waiting in long lines at various dealerships, with some dealers forced to distribute cylinders on the roadside due to space constraints. Ram Chandra Khadka, operator of Vanasthali Gas Traders, reported that they are receiving far less stock than usual, leaving many consumers unable to secure a cylinder.
The shortage has impacted households, hotels, restaurants, and hostels. Hostel operator Mona Parajuli mentioned that she has to wait for hours in line, which has complicated meal preparations for students. Amid concerns over potential artificial shortages and price gouging, there are growing calls for stricter market monitoring.
The NOC has urged consumers not to panic-buy or hoard gas, expressing hope that supplies will stabilize once the main highway obstructions are cleared.
