LP Gas Shortage in Siraha Sparks Black Market Concerns, Prices Double

Siraha. Complaints are increasing in the district that some sellers have started black marketing by showing a shortage of cooking LP gas. Victims stated that they are being forced to pay more than double the fixed price.

According to Pintu Raut, operator of Maharaja Restaurant and Hotel in Lahan, shopkeepers have started charging exorbitant prices by taking advantage of the gas shortage. "When I went to get two cylinders of gas, they demanded NPR 4,500 per cylinder," he said. "The price for two cylinders should be NPR 3,820 at the fixed rate. How can I pay if they ask for NPR 9,000? I had to return empty-handed afterward."

Pramod Yadav, who operates a tea and snack shop in Siraha Municipality-6, also said that it is difficult to run the business because he cannot get gas at the fixed price. "I have to pay NPR 4,500 to buy a cylinder," he said. "How can I cover expenses by buying it so expensively? Now, the worry is growing that we might not even be able to cook food."

The retail price for a cylinder of cooking gas is NPR 1,910. However, consumers complain that it is being sold in the market for more than double that price.

Consumer rights activists have urged the relevant bodies to immediately monitor the situation, suggesting that an artificial shortage of gas might be creating a black market. Assistant Chief District Officer Chetraj Baral informed that the District Administration Office, Siraha, has warned that action will be taken against those involved in black marketing.

He stated that black marketing is against the law, and anyone found guilty will be prosecuted. He added, "We will coordinate with the Commerce Office and relevant bodies to monitor the market, and if black marketing is found, action will be taken according to the law."

Local distributors of the Nepal Oil Corporation stated that the shortage in the market is due to problems in transportation and supply management, the closure of the border for three days due to elections, and consumers hoarding gas.