LPG Crackdown Begins: Shop Fined NRS 300,000 for Overcharging

The government has stepped up its crackdown on the sale of cooking LPG gas immediately after the appointment of newly appointed Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Deepak Kumar Shah. The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has fined a grocery store NRS 300,000 after it was found selling LPG cylinders at a price significantly higher than the government-fixed rate. According to the department, Anil Kirana Pasal, located in Chakhadol, Kageshwori Manohara Municipality–6, was found selling Sugam LPG gas at NRS 2,600 per cylinder, despite the government-set price of NRS 2,060. The shop was therefore charging consumers an additional NRS 540 per cylinder. After confirming the overcharging, the department imposed the fine under the Consumer Protection Act, 2075 and Consumer Protection Regulations, 2076. The department has intensified market inspections amid growing complaints about artificial shortages and black marketing of cooking gas. Officials have warned that businesses charging above the government-fixed price will face immediate action. The latest enforcement action following Minister Shah’s appointment is being viewed as a signal that the government is giving greater priority to controlling LPG prices, supply disruptions and potential black-market activities in the domestic market.