Kathmandu DAO Orders Immediate Sale of Cooking Gas Stocks Amid Shortage

The District Administration Office (DAO), Kathmandu has directed cooking gas sellers and distributors to immediately sell their available stock to consumers after receiving growing complaints about difficulties in purchasing LPG despite improving supplies. The administration said intensive monitoring is being carried out across Kathmandu to prevent unfair practices and ensure the proper distribution of cooking gas. Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken against traders who charge more than the government-fixed price or engage in hoarding, hiding or illegally storing gas cylinders. The DAO has also urged consumers to report cases of hidden stocks or illegal storage to the designated Information Officer at 9851338322. The Kathmandu Valley has recently experienced a severe cooking gas shortage after heavy rainfall and landslides disrupted major highways, forcing gas-carrying vehicles to use alternative routes and, in some cases, refill their supplies in the Tarai region. Although gas supplies have gradually improved, consumers continue to face shortages due to panic buying, distribution bottlenecks and alleged black-market sales at inflated prices. The administration has already taken action against some gas dealers for storing cylinders instead of distributing them to consumers. Officials have emphasized that available supplies must reach the public promptly to prevent artificial shortages and ensure fair distribution.