What we know
- Consumers in Kathmandu Valley are reportedly paying up to Rs 3,000 for a cooking gas cylinder, according to Online Khabar English.
- The government-fixed price for an LPG cylinder is Rs 2,165, Online Khabar English reported.
- The shortage has worsened due to landslides damaging the Prithvi Highway at Krishnabhir, affecting supply routes into the Valley.
- Supply is currently estimated to be below 20 percent of the daily demand, which is over 100,000 cylinders in Kathmandu Valley, Online Khabar English stated.
What this means if you are travelling
- Travellers staying in the Kathmandu Valley, particularly those in self-catering accommodations or homestays, may experience difficulties finding cooking gas or face higher prices.
- Restaurants and guesthouses in Kathmandu Valley might also be affected by the shortage, potentially leading to menu changes or operational adjustments.
- While direct trekking routes are generally unaffected, those planning to spend time in Kathmandu before or after their trek should be aware of these local supply issues.
- The disruption to the Prithvi Highway at Krishnabhir could lead to longer travel times for road journeys entering or exiting the Valley, especially from areas affected by the floods in Rasuwa.
Kathmandu Valley is currently experiencing a significant shortage of cooking gas, with consumers reportedly paying substantially more than the official rate for LPG cylinders. Online Khabar English reported on September 9 that prices have climbed as high as Rs 3,000 per cylinder, despite the government-fixed price being Rs 2,165.
The increase in prices and scarcity of supply are affecting daily life across the Valley. Residents are struggling to secure essential cooking fuel amidst these market conditions.
Causes of the Supply Disruption
The shortage has been exacerbated by recent infrastructure damage. Landslides at Krishnabhir on the Prithvi Highway have disrupted a primary supply route into Kathmandu Valley, according to Online Khabar English. This follows earlier floods in Rasuwa, which also impacted supply lines.
To mitigate the issue, LPG cylinders from industries in Kathmandu, Dhading, and Kavrepalanchok are being rerouted through alternative paths to refilling plants in various Tarai districts, including Bara, Parsa, Makwanpur, Chitwan, Nawalparasi, Dhanusha, and Mahottari. After refilling, they are transported back to the Valley.
Increased Costs and Unjustified Pricing
LPG dealers have cited higher transport costs as a factor in increased expenses. Gahas Bikreta Mahasangh Nepal First Vice-President Gehendra Prasad Rijal stated that dealers have had to personally travel to the Tarai for supplies, with transport costs adding between Rs 325 and Rs 450 per cylinder depending on the vehicle used. However, he also acknowledged that charging Rs 2,800 to Rs 3,000 per cylinder is unjustified.
- Government-fixed price for an LPG cylinder: Rs 2,165
- Reported consumer prices: Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000, according to Online Khabar English
- Estimated additional transport costs for dealers: Rs 325–450 per cylinder
Government Response and Monitoring
The Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection Department has deployed two monitoring teams specifically to address complaints of dealers charging prices above the official rate. Online Khabar English reported that the department has received complaints of consumers being charged Rs 2,600 or more. Enforcement has proven challenging when complaints lack identifying details such as the dealer's name or address.
Impact on Travellers
For travellers in Kathmandu Valley, this LPG shortage could lead to some inconveniences. Those staying in accommodations that rely on cooking gas, such as certain guesthouses or self-catering options, might find services altered or face higher costs. Restaurants and cafes could also experience operational adjustments, potentially affecting menu availability.
While trekking activities outside the Valley are largely unaffected by this specific local issue, road travel in and out of Kathmandu could see delays due to the damaged Prithvi Highway. Travellers should confirm arrangements with their local operators or accommodations regarding any potential impact on their stay or travel plans within the Kathmandu Valley.
Current Supply Levels
Demand for LPG in Kathmandu Valley is estimated at over 100,000 cylinders per day, but current supply is reportedly less than 20 percent of this figure, according to Online Khabar English. Police data indicates that approximately 169,530 cylinders entered the Valley via Nagdhunga between August 31 and Tuesday.
Reported by
This update summarises reporting from the outlets below and adds our own planning guidance. Follow the links for the original reports.
Questions travellers are asking
Is cooking gas available in Kathmandu Valley?
Yes, cooking gas is available, but there is a reported shortage. Consumers are facing difficulties finding cylinders and are often required to pay prices significantly higher than the government-fixed rate, according to Online Khabar English.
How much should an LPG cylinder cost in Kathmandu?
The government-fixed price for an LPG cylinder is Rs 2,165. However, due to the shortage, consumers are reportedly paying between Rs 2,500 and Rs 3,000, as stated by Online Khabar English.
What caused the LPG shortage in Kathmandu Valley?
The shortage has worsened due to disruptions to supply routes, primarily caused by landslides damaging the Prithvi Highway at Krishnabhir. This key route into the Valley was affected following earlier floods in Rasuwa.
Will this shortage affect my trekking plans?
The LPG shortage is primarily affecting the Kathmandu Valley. Trekking routes and activities outside the Valley are generally not directly impacted. However, road travel in and out of Kathmandu could experience delays due to highway damage, so it is advisable to check with your operator regarding any travel within the Valley.