From Monday, the Ministry of Economic Affairs will be reinforcing the usage of commercial LPG cylinders in Thimphu, Chhukha and Paro. The 19 kg commercial gas was launched in October, last year.
From November, the ministry will be introducing the commercial LPG cylinders to all the commercial establishments in other dzongkhags in phase wise.
The Minister of Economic Affairs, Norbu Wangchuk has issued a statement saying the ministry will be distributing the commercial LPG cylinders to all the commercial establishments to meet the increasing demand on the LPG cylinders.
“Today the MoEA would like to introduce commercial gas cylinders weighing 19 kgs. We intend to supply our LPG cylinders to Hotels and restaurants…”
He goes on to say that the move is to address the challenge of LPG shortage especially in hotels. “We understand that presently they are hoarding 10 to 90 LPG cylinders. Although the price is bit higher, the service will be consistent; they will be getting at any time.” He also said he on behalf of Ministry would like to appeal to the hotels owners to support in the distribution of the commercial gas.
With the introduction of the commercial gas, it will be mandatory for all the commercial establishments in the country to use only the commercial LPG. They will be required to surrender their subsidised domestic LPG cylinders. The 19 kg Commercial Gas known as BIG gas was launched in Thimphu, last year. However the Economic Affairs ministry was not able to fully implement the distribution.
The hoteliers raised their concern about the high price. They also added that with only one agent, it is difficult to get the commercial cylinders during holidays. The 19 kg commercial gas cost more than Nu.2,000.
The Director of Department of Trade, Sonam Wangchuk, said that since it is a commercial gas, it is at a commercial rate and it depends on the invoice from India.“Though it is a commercial gas, we still fix the prices, regulate and monitor to ensure prices do not shoot up unnecessarily. As for the time, dealers are supposed to cater to our clients irrespective of whether it is Sunday or government holidays.”
After the commercial LPG gas are distributed, if the commercial establishments are found using subsidised LPG cylinders, they will be warned. If they are found violating the rule for the second time, they will be fined Nu.10,000. Their license will be cancelled if they are caught violating the rule for the third time.
Currently, about 3,000 commercial cylinders are supplied in Thimphu, Chhukha and Paro.
