Nepal Considers Odd-Even Traffic Scheme Amid Soaring Global Fuel Prices Due to West Asian Conflict

Kathmandu. Amid soaring international crude oil prices due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, discussions are intensifying in Nepal regarding the implementation of an odd-even vehicle rationing system to reduce petroleum consumption. Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has stated that it is consulting with various agencies on measures to curb consumption, citing significant daily losses due to price hikes.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transport Management confirmed that one round of discussions has taken place regarding the implementation of the odd-even system. According to Department Director Shrikanta Yadav, the discussion centered on reducing consumption to prevent potential problems in Nepal following the impact of the West Asian conflict on global petroleum supply.

He confirmed that the odd-even rationing system was considered during the discussion, but clarified that no concrete decision has been made yet. "There was a discussion about implementing the odd-even system, but no concrete decision has been reached," said Director Yadav.

However, NOC has so far indicated that the West Asian conflict has not directly affected Nepal's supply system and that the supply of petroleum products remains smooth. But, NOC officials stated that preparations are underway to reduce consumption to face future challenges as international crude oil prices continue to rise.

According to NOC Spokesperson Manoj Thakur, the corporation is incurring a daily loss of four billion rupees since the last price increase. While the international market saw diesel prices rise by 54 rupees per liter, NOC only increased the price by 10 rupees.

Similarly, while petrol prices increased by 31 rupees in the international market, NOC raised the price by only 15 rupees. For LPG gas, despite an international increase of 216 rupees, the previous price has been maintained. Spokesperson Thakur emphasized the necessity of reducing petroleum consumption as international market prices are expected to rise further.