Long Queues for LPG Cylinders at Teku Despite Assurances of Adequate Supply

Long queues of consumers were seen outside the National Trading Limited branch in Teku, Kathmandu, as people waited for hours to purchase LPG cylinders from various brands, including Sugam Gas, Nepal Gas, Everest Gas, LP Gas, Rajdhani Gas and Triveni Gas. Many arrived carrying empty cylinders by hand, on their shoulders or on motorcycles after failing to find cooking gas at local retail dealers. While the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) insists that LPG supplies remain sufficient and distribution in Kathmandu Valley is operating normally, consumers say the situation on the ground tells a different story. The Teku branch distributes gas only between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., leading to heavy crowds and long waits. Consumers have called for a token or online registration system to reduce congestion and make distribution more convenient, especially for senior citizens, women and people with disabilities. Consumer rights advocates have also urged authorities to strengthen market monitoring to prevent artificial shortages and black marketing instead of relying solely on public assurances about adequate supply.