The Nepal LP Gas Industry Association has warned of resuming its postponed protest, citing the government's failure to address its demands. With the association announcing a phased protest that includes halting gas sales and distribution, the risk of cooking gas shortage for consumers has increased.
The association had submitted a 19-point demand to the government on February 6, setting a February 11 deadline for resolution. On February 12, discussions were held in the presence of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari, Nepal Oil Corporation’s board members, senior officials, and association representatives. The government requested 15 days to address the demands, leading to a postponement of the protest until February 27. However, as the government is yet to resolve the issues, the association has decided to intensify its agitation, said its president, Shiva Prasad Ghimire.
The protest schedule, which started on Sunday, includes halting gas sales if demands remain unmet, potentially leading to a market shortage. Ghimire stated that gas industrialists have already stopped purchasing Product Delivery Orders (PDOs) since Sunday. The association's protest plan includes halting gas loading from refineries, blocking the release of gas bullets from customs, and stopping gas sales and distribution. It demands an immediate increase in dealer commissions, transportation costs, and overhead expenses, which have remained unchanged for six years. The association also insists that these costs be adjusted annually based on inflation.
Ghimire emphasized that rising transportation fares and labor wages have increased the production cost of cooking gas, making it essential to revise dealer commissions. He also stressed the need for stronger safety regulations, including effective public awareness programs on safe gas usage, prevention of LP gas-related accidents, and stricter enforcement against substandard pipes and regulators. Additionally, the association is calling for a revision of gas bullet lifespan regulations to match India's 10-year limit instead of Nepal Oil Corporation's 20-year rule. It is also demanding the formation of a permanent independent monitoring committee to investigate gas cylinder accidents and enhance safety.
If the government does not address these concerns, the association has warned that gas sales and distribution from dealers will cease on March 24. Industrialists also raised concerns over Nepal’s lack of an Explosives Act, regulatory laws, and oversight body, forcing them to operate under Indian laws and obtain licenses from India. They argue that billions of rupees are flowing abroad annually due to Nepal's lack of a domestic gas transportation system. Ghimire warned that if the government continues to discourage investment rather than supporting the industry, operations may become unsustainable.
Protest Schedule:
• March 2: Stop purchasing Product Delivery Orders.
• March 8: Stop lifting gas from Indian refineries.
• March 14: Stop releasing gas bullets from customs.
• March 20: Stop selling gas from industries.
• March 24: Stop selling gas from dealers.
