Nepal Oil Corporation Claims Gas Imports Meet Demand, but Distribution Remains a Challenge

Nepal Oil Corporation has arranged for the sale of liquefied petroleum (LP) gas cylinders through five different companies in Kathmandu Valley to streamline LP gas sales.

According to the corporation’s spokesperson, Manoj Thakur, the companies will sell and distribute 14.2 kg gas cylinders from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The corporation has imported around 49,000 metric tons of gas in July alone.

Industrialists have imported 26.5 metric tons of gas from Ashar 1 to Ashar 15. "There is no shortage of gas, and we are supplying gas as per demand," Thakur said, "The problem arose when gas cylinders were switched from 7.1 kg to 14.2 kg. The situation will improve in a week."

Gas Shortage Persists Despite Corporation’s Claims

Despite the corporation’s claims, consumers have been facing difficulties in obtaining gas. Many retailers have been turning away customers, citing a lack of gas supply from the industries.

Navaraj Pokharel, a resident of Balaju, Kathmandu, has been struggling to get gas for several days. "When I go to the gas shop, they say that the gas has not arrived from the industry, so I have to wait," he said.

The corporation has urged consumers to purchase gas only as needed and not to hoard it unnecessarily. It has also directed industries to ensure a smooth supply of gas and to prioritize household consumers.

The corporation has requested retailers to maintain a record of the buyer’s name, address, and contact number to streamline gas sales. It has also asked consumers to contact the hotline number if they face any difficulties in obtaining gas.