NOC Faces Backlash over Selective LPG Sales as Shortage Worsens

KATHMANDU; Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has begun selling liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders of only a handful of selected brands from its outlet in Teku, Kathmandu, amid mounting complaints of cooking gas shortages.

Rather than tightening market regulation and ensuring a smooth nationwide supply, the state-owned monopoly has started retailing LPG directly from its own office. In a public notice issued on Saturday, the NOC said consumers can purchase LPG cylinders from its Teku outlet daily between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.

The corporation is currently selling cylinders of Nepal Gas, HP Gas, Everest Gas, Sugam Gas and Shreeram Gas. Consumers using other LPG brands, however, are unable to obtain replacement cylinders through the NOC outlet, leaving many without immediate access to cooking gas.

According to the NOC, the decision was taken in response to growing demand in the Kathmandu Valley and increasing complaints from consumers struggling to obtain LPG. Many consumers say they have had to wait for weeks to receive a single cylinder.

Despite the widespread shortage reported by consumers, the NOC continues to insist that LPG imports are sufficient to meet domestic demand. Critics argue that instead of effectively regulating distribution and ensuring supplies reach the market, the corporation has resorted to direct sales from its own office, a move they describe as an attempt to address public criticism rather than the underlying supply problem.

The NOC has urged consumers who are unable to obtain cooking gas in their localities to contact the corporation.