Despite significant efforts, transporting iodized salt to the remote Karnali region remains a persistent challenge. The state-owned Salt Trading Corporation Limited (STCL) continues to supply iodized salt to depots across Karnali, but logistical hurdles, including difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions, complicate the process. To make salt accessible in this economically disadvantaged region, the government subsidizes transportation costs, allowing salt to be sold at just Rs 9 per kilogram. However, transporting iodized salt to Upper Dolpa remains impossible due to the Chinese government withholding permission for transit.

Chief of STCL’s Nepalgunj Provincial Office, Manoj Chaudhary, reported progress in addressing supply gaps in Humla, Mugu, and Dolpa districts. In Dolpa, 1,100 quintals of salt have been transported to Dunai, the district headquarters, out of a 2,050-quintal quota as of the third week of November. However, several depots, including Jufal and Kaigaun, are yet to receive their allocations. Similarly, in Humla, 1,150 quintals have been delivered to Simikot, the district headquarters, out of a 1,600-quintal quota, with transportation still underway for depots in Yalwang and Sarkegad. Mugu faces similar delays; although 1,100 quintals out of a 2,500-quintal quota have reached the district headquarters, some areas, like Mugumkarmarong, have yet to receive any deliveries.

Chaudhary explained that transportation often faces delays because contract-based transporters prioritize their convenience over adhering to deadlines. Harsh weather conditions and snowfall in the mountainous regions further exacerbate these delays. The challenging geography and limited infrastructure make the logistics of salt transportation a complex and time-consuming task.

Local governments have been collaborating with STCL to ensure salt reaches various areas. For instance, in Jumla, 2,150 quintals out of a 4,000-quintal quota have been transported to the district headquarters, with partial deliveries made to Narakot and Goruchaur. However, local leaders argue that the current salt quota is insufficient to meet the growing population's needs. Jajarkot and Kalikot districts face similar challenges. In Jajarkot, 1,200 quintals out of a 2,500-quintal quota have been transported to the district headquarters, while other depots like Dali and Thalah are still awaiting significant allocations. In Kalikot, only 750 quintals out of a 3,500-quintal quota have been delivered.

Former Minister Ganesh Prasad Singh criticized the limited salt quotas, stating they fail to address the annual demand in Karnali. -- RSS