A Supply Crisis Must Not Become a Price Crisis
Summary
Flood-related transport disruptions in Kathmandu Valley are tightening supplies and raising concerns over unjustified price hikes on essentials. Authorities are being urged to repair damaged roads, monitor markets and prevent profiteering as traders pass on higher transport costs or exploit shortages.
Key Points
- Floods on the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers have disrupted key supply routes to Kathmandu Valley, especially the Nagdhunga-Muglin road.
- Prices of sugar, rice, cooking oil and other staples have risen sharply, prompting calls for investigation into possible profiteering.
- Market supplies at Kalimati fell sharply, raising fears of panic buying and artificial shortages.
- Officials are being urged to publicize stock data, strengthen inspections and keep fuel, LPG and food supplies moving fairly.
