Commerce department urges public to report illegal LPG trading on 1137

KATHMANDU: Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has urged the public to call the toll-free number 1137 with information about illegal trading of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The appeal follows reports that shortages are being used as a pretext in the international market.

The department on Monday fined Shreeram Gas Udyog Rs 300,000 after discovering hoarded gas. It reported that 6,377 LPG cylinders weighing 14.2 kg each were found hidden in the company’s warehouse in Harisiddhi, Lalitpur.

The department said the toll-free number is fully operational and can be accessed from any location in the country. It has been conducting on-site monitoring and inspections nationwide and clarified that legal action will be taken under the Consumer Protection Act 2018 as soon as discrepancies are identified.

In recent days, the department has observed an increase in black-market activity, excessive hoarding and sales at inflated prices for cooking gas, and has urged consumers to use the hotline to report such activities.

Although Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has arranged to sell only half-filled LPG cylinders, a gas shortage persists in the market. The department warned that strict action will be taken if unfair trade practices are discovered.

The department said it is actively working to facilitate the supply system and to control illegal activities, such as artificial shortages, during this period of high demand for cooking gas. All gas production industries and distributors have been cautioned to operate in accordance with the law and avoid illegal conduct.