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A nationwide shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has forced consumers across Nepal to endure significant hardship, with residents in Pokhara lining up for hours at gas depots carrying empty cylinders as supplies remain limited.

In response to the growing concern, the Kaski District Administration Office has intensified market inspections to monitor the supply situation and prevent artificial shortages.

A surprise inspection was conducted at Charisma Emporium, one of Pokhara’s major LPG distributors, under the leadership of Assistant Chief District Officer Chitrangat Baral.

During the inspection, Baral acknowledged that the temporary disruption in supply was caused by LPG companies outside the district failing to deliver the required quantity of gas.

However, he assured the public that there is no need to panic, urging consumers not to hoard LPG cylinders or purchase more than necessary.

“We expect the LPG supply to return to normal within the next two to three days,” Baral said. “Thanks to the administration’s coordination and efforts, the supply chain is already improving. Companies including Nepal Gas and Baba Gas have dispatched shipments to Pokhara, and approximately 8,000 to 10,000 LPG cylinders are currently arriving in the city every day.”

Meanwhile, LPG distributors argue that the shortage has been worsened by panic buying and excessive stockpiling by consumers.

Sita Baral, proprietor of Charisma Emporium, said rumors surrounding international conflicts and fears of a prolonged shortage prompted many households to store far more LPG cylinders than they actually need.

“The issue is not that distributors are hiding gas,” she explained. “We are distributing every cylinder as soon as it arrives. However, some consumers have stockpiled four to five cylinders each, making it difficult for families with genuine needs to obtain LPG.”

The Kaski District Administration has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone found creating an artificial shortage or engaging in black-market activities.

Authorities stated that they are maintaining close coordination with LPG distributors and the Gas Dealers’ Association to ensure a stable and uninterrupted supply across the district.

Officials have once again appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary stockpiling, emphasizing that regular supplies are expected to resume shortly.