Fuel shortage hits Nepal’s capital

KATMANDU, Nepal — A shortage of fuel in Nepal prompted by strikes and protests in the south forced the shutdown of much of the capital’s public transportation system Wednesday, industry officials said.

More than 80 percent of Katmandu’s buses, vans and trucks remained parked because authorities were unable to buy diesel and gasoline to run them, said Sharad Sitaula of the Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs Association.


“We are facing a major crisis in our business. We have no income and are unable to pay our drivers and staff. If this continues, many of us will have to shut down our business,” Sitaula said.

Hundreds of vehicles, meanwhile, lined up outside a handful of service stations selling rationed fuel in Katmandu, and workers dependent on public transport were forced to walk or stay at home.

“I have waited for hours for a bus to get to work, but now I have to return home and I won’t be paid for the day,” said housekeeper Srijana Lama.

AP