Kathmandu: A significant problem has emerged as three sales outlets of the Food Management and Trading Company Ltd (FMTCL) in Upper Dolpa are experiencing a severe shortage of food grains. The affected outlets, located in Dho, Saldang, and Tinje, are reportedly running out of stock.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Chief of the Dolpa branch of the Company, Bishnu Ghimire, revealed that the scarcity of food grains is due to the absence of a new contract for rice supply this year, compounded by the lack of distributed rice stock from the last fiscal year. Chairperson of Shey-Phoksundo rural municipality, Dhawa Samduk Gurung, highlighted the disparity in rice prices, noting that while the trade company sells 25 kg of rice at Rs 2,219, the cost can soar up to Rs 4,500 outside these outlets. Gurung has urged the Company to ensure the transportation and sale of rice at least once a year, emphasizing the exacerbated issue during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.
Gurung warned of a significant food grain shortage in Upper Dolpa if supplies are not replenished by the second week of October. Upper Dolpa encompasses the rural municipalities of Shey-Phoksundo, Chharkatangsong, and Dolpobuddha. Meanwhile, the Food Management and Trading Company Province Office in Surkhet assured that there is an adequate supply of food grains at depots and sales outlets across all districts of the Karnali province.