Banking News – A fresh shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has emerged across Kathmandu Valley and several other districts, forcing consumers to queue for hours at gas plants after failing to obtain cylinders from local dealers and distribution centers.

Long lines of consumers carrying empty LPG cylinders were seen outside Nepal Gas Industry in the Balaju Industrial Area on Sunday. With many local depots running out of stock, households have been compelled to visit gas industries directly in hopes of securing a cylinder.

Although the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) maintains that LPG imports from India remain above market demand and that there is no disruption in supply, consumers say the situation on the ground tells a different story. Many reported returning empty-handed after visiting multiple dealers.

Earlier this year, during a previous supply shortage, the NOC temporarily allowed the sale of half-filled LPG cylinders weighing 7.1 kilograms. However, effective from July 15, 2026 (Asar 31, 2083 BS), the corporation directed all LPG industries to distribute only fully filled 14.2-kilogram cylinders.

Despite the introduction of full-weight cylinders, consumers claim the new distribution system has coincided with worsening shortages. Many suspect that an artificial scarcity has been created in the market and have urged the government to strengthen market monitoring and ensure a smooth supply of cooking gas.

In response to increasing public complaints, the Nepal Oil Corporation has begun selling Nepal Gas, HP Gas, Everest Gas, Sugam Gas, and Shree Ram Gas cylinders directly from its former office in Teku. The initiative aims to ease consumer hardship, but long queues have also been reported at the corporation’s distribution center, with many customers still unable to obtain gas.

While the Nepal Oil Corporation continues to insist that there is no shortage of LPG or other petroleum products, consumers have called on the government and regulatory authorities to conduct effective market inspections and ensure the uninterrupted availability of this essential household fuel.