The DoC has suggested the MoCS to upgrade the existing distribution system in order to reduce gap in the demand-supply process that is giving birth to market anomalies. The department took the step after it found host of irregularities in the distribution and price fixation during its market inspection.[break]
“Some LPG distributors even don´t have proper details of the number of cylinders they have delivered in the market. Market trend suggests that distributors are contributing toward instigating shortage of the cooking fuel in the market,” Anil Thakur, director general of DoC, said.
“If our proposal gets the ministry´s nod, it is expected to ease the availability of the popular cooking fuel in the market.”
As per the existing distribution system, LPG cylinders pass through distributors, sub-distributors and depots, before reaching to customers.
Meanwhile, the department in coordination with District Administration Office (DAO) and Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) started inspection on price and availability of LPG in the market from Tuesday. It has also asked NOC to forward details of LPG delivery to refilling industries.
The department also revealed its plan of monitoring safety measures in LPG handling in tie up with NOC.
“LPG distribution is emerging as a lucrative business and even persons, who are in no way concerned with distribution system, are making fast bucks without seeking approval of authorities concerned,” Thakur said, adding, “It´s high time we controlled such illegal activities.”
The DoC has also asked the Bureau of Standard and Meteorology to strictly check weight and quality of LPG cylinders the cooking gas available in the market. It plans to carry out market inspection throughout the country.
DoC has carried out inspections in more than 11 gas distributors over the past two days.
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