Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a special briefing this week at his official residence in Baluwatar, where top officials from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce shared exciting updates on two of Nepal’s biggest natural resources: the methane gas reserve in Dailekh and the iron deposit in Dhauwadi, Nawalparasi.
According to the briefing, the Dailekh gas field contains an estimated 112 billion cubic meters of methane gas, while the Dhauwadi iron mine is expected to supply iron for more than 100 years. This could be a major turning point for Nepal’s industrial development, reducing reliance on foreign imports and creating jobs, factories, and local industries.
PM Oli Says: Start Gas Extraction in 1 Year
After listening to the detailed report, Prime Minister Oli directed the concerned authorities to start gas extraction work within one year. He emphasized the importance of using Nepal’s own natural resources for economic progress, energy security, and national independence.
“Nepal must use what lies beneath its own soil,” PM Oli said. “We have waited too long. Now is the time to act quickly and carefully.”
The Prime Minister added that these projects must follow environmental safety guidelines and provide opportunities to local communities.
Dailekh Gas Reserve: A Hidden Treasure
The Dailekh gas reserve lies in the Jaljale area of Dailekh district in western Nepal. Experts from China’s Geological Survey and Nepal’s own geologists estimate the field holds over 112 billion cubic meters of methane gas—a clean and highly useful fuel.
If extracted properly, this gas could power homes, factories, vehicles, and even be exported in the future.
“This is enough gas to meet Nepal’s needs for decades,” said an official from the Ministry of Industry.
“It can replace imported LPG and fuel, saving billions in foreign currency.”
Dhauwadi Iron Mine: Steel for 100 Years
In eastern Nepal, the Dhauwadi iron deposit in Nawalparasi East has been known for some time, but now fresh reports confirm it is one of the largest iron ore deposits in South Asia. The site could provide high-quality iron ore for 100 years, according to engineers.
“With proper mining and management, we can build our own steel industries,” the Ministry’s report noted.
“This will help Nepal grow stronger in construction, transport, and export industries.”
A Step Toward Energy and Industrial Independence
Both the gas reserve in Dailekh and the iron mine in Dhauwadi offer Nepal a chance to take a big step toward self-reliance. For years, Nepal has depended heavily on foreign imports for fuel and construction materials. But now, with these resources, the country can reduce imports and invest in local production.
PM Oli said the government is committed to making sure these projects run in a transparent, eco-friendly, and community-first way.
“Let’s use our own resources to build our own future,” he said.
Jobs, Factories, and Development for All
The Prime Minister also pointed out that these projects will bring new jobs and development to Dailekh and Nawalparasi. With gas and iron extraction, the government expects:
New industries like steel plants and gas bottling factories
Thousands of new jobs for engineers, workers, drivers, and local people
Better roads and schools in surrounding areas
Increased energy access for homes and businesses
Export opportunities in the long term
This means a stronger economy, especially in rural provinces that have often been left behind.
PM Calls for Transparent and Safe Development
To make sure the projects succeed, PM Oli instructed that all work must be done with transparency, scientific planning, and respect for nature. He said corruption, delays, or poor planning
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