Industry Committee Chairman Ansari Demands Technologically Advanced LP Gas Distribution System

Kathmandu. Industry, Commerce and Labour and Consumer Interest Committee Chairman Rahabar Ansari has demanded that the government make the distribution, monitoring, and management of cooking LP gas technologically advanced and systematic. Speaking at a committee meeting on Wednesday, Chairman Ansari drew the attention of the concerned bodies to take concrete steps to solve the problems seen in the gas supply chain.

Chairman Ansari stated the need for 'household mapping' and an integrated information system to ascertain the number of cylinders of each company in every household. He said that monitoring would be effective and misuse would be prevented if a system was developed where ward-level consumer data could be collected and viewed by the Nepal Oil Corporation, gas producers, and distributors. He emphasized the need to bring a revised policy in the coming days, reviewing the achievements and problems obtained from the use of half cylinders. He also expressed concern over the limited use of 'lightweight' (carbon fiber) cylinders, which are considered easier and safer for transportation, and urged clarification on their quality and safety. Regarding pipeline expansion and storage capacity increase, Chairman Ansari demanded a commitment from the concerned minister with a clear action plan and timeline.

In the meeting, Chairman Ansari expressed the view that the concerned company and the regulatory body should have information about which company's cylinders have reached which house. He said, 'There should be no delay in implementing an integrated system in coordination with the local level. We do not want traditional assurances like 'we are serious'.' He demanded that the minister should publicly present a clear timetable for when the work of pipeline construction and storage capacity expansion will be completed. He added, 'Improvement is not possible without commitment with a target.'

Chairman Ansari has also put forward the concept of a collective distribution system to manage gas supply in housing colonies and apartments in urban areas. He urged gas industrialists to take the initiative to install their own storage and pipeline systems in large housing complexes, following international practices. He believes that such a system will make distribution more systematic, safe, and modern.