KATHMANDU: The government has decided to import more than 50,000 metric tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) each month over the next three months to address the recent cooking gas shortage and ensure adequate supplies during the upcoming festive season.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Gobinda Bahadur Karki at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting reviewed the causes of the gas shortage and discussed the roles of relevant ministries, government agencies, gas industries and distributors in resolving the issue.
During the meeting, gas entrepreneurs said there was no actual shortage of LPG despite widespread public concern. They argued that demand had surged after the government resumed the distribution of standard 14.2-kilogram cylinders, replacing the temporary 7.1-kilogram half-cylinder system introduced following supply disruptions linked to the conflict in West Asia.
Business representatives also said LPG imports have increased compared to previous levels, but excessive stockpiling by consumers has contributed to supply pressure in the market.
The meeting also decided to strengthen coordination among concerned agencies to ensure more effective, regular and smooth distribution of LPG in districts experiencing supply problems.
Chief Secretary Karki said the government would continue separate consultations with stakeholders to develop long-term solutions to recurring LPG supply issues.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Nepal Oil Corporation, and representatives of the country’s LPG industry and distributors.
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