The Gas Sellers’ Federation, Nepal has raised concerns over the worsening shortage of cooking LPG across the country, accusing the government of focusing more on publicity than finding a practical solution to the supply crisis.

According to a statement issued by the federation, Nepal imported around 60,000 metric tons less LPG over the past four months. The federation argues that reduced imports, combined with changes in the distribution system, have further intensified the shortage.

The federation has also identified the large number of cylinders already circulating in the market as another factor behind the problem. It estimates that around 8 million cylinders are distributed across the market, warning that continued sales of new cylinders could make LPG shortages more difficult to manage in the coming years.

The federation criticized the government, Nepal Oil Corporation and relevant authorities for failing to adequately address the underlying causes of the shortage. It alleged that government agencies have instead focused on publicity and inspections of gas sellers.

The federation has called for LPG distribution to be made more efficient by restoring the role of authorized gas sellers rather than allowing industries and various sales centers to directly distribute gas.

It has urged the government to focus on LPG imports, distribution channels and supply management to ensure consumers can obtain cooking gas without unnecessary hardship.