Nepal's LPG Gas Usage: A 55-Year Journey Through Crises and Solutions
Summary
Nepal’s LPG market is facing renewed shortages driven more by hoarding and panic than by supply collapse, according to a former gas industry leader. He calls for industry mergers, larger storage reserves, a pipeline from Motihari, and a targeted subsidy system to stabilize supply and prices.
Key Points
- Nepal has now used gas for 55 years, but widespread commercial access began only about 52–53 years ago.
- The article recalls major gas crises during the 2045 BS blockade, the 2072 BS earthquake and Indian blockade, and the COVID lockdown.
- The current shortage is described as largely psychological, with consumers hoarding cylinders despite daily supply increases.
- Long-term solutions proposed include industry consolidation, 90-day storage capacity, a Motihari-Nepal pipeline, and targeted cash subsidies for needy consumers.
