Cooking Gas Shortage in Kathmandu, Long Lines in Balaju

Kathmandu.

Due to tensions in the Middle East, the supply of cooking gas in Nepal has been affected. Some gas distribution depots remain closed, while long lines of consumers have formed at the few that are open.
This morning, long queues were seen in the industrial area of Balaju, with consumers standing in line carrying empty cylinders. Some were able to purchase filled cylinders and return home, but the number of people who could get gas was limited.

The shortage is not limited to Kathmandu alone. Other major cities including Janakpur, Birgunj, and Biratnagar are also experiencing a scarcity of cooking gas, making it difficult for residents to meet their daily cooking needs.
The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has increased tensions in the Gulf region. The maritime route connecting Iran, the UAE, and Oman—the Strait of Hormuz—has been affected by the conflict. This disruption has impacted the global transportation of gas and petroleum products.
Since Nepal imports gas and petroleum from India, disruptions in supply there have directly caused shortages in Nepal as well.