Nepal's LPG Gas Shortage Eases with Increased Imports from India
Nepal's cooking LPG gas shortage has started to ease after imports from India increased and distribution was made smoother, said Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC). The shortage emerged when NOC resumed selling full 14.2 kg cylinders on July 15, leading to a surge in market demand.
According to Binitmani Upadhyay, director of NOC's LP Gas Department, there was pressure on supply during the initial days when distribution shifted from 7.1 kg half cylinders to full cylinders. However, sales and distribution have now begun to stabilize.
NOC has been importing over 100 gas bullets daily from Indian Oil Corporation refineries, with more imports expected in the coming weeks. The corporation estimates that Nepal will import around 55,000 metric tons of LPG in Shrawan this year, a significant increase from last year's 44,318 metric tons.
NOC and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies have intensified market monitoring to ensure smooth distribution. Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Gauri Kumari Yadav said the government is pursuing diplomatic initiatives with India to increase Nepal's gas quota for the next three months in preparation for upcoming festivals.