The recent discovery of a large quantity of methane gas in Dailekh district of western Nepal holds the potential to bring historic changes to the country’s energy sector. This finding may lead Nepal away from its current dependence on imported energy, towards self-reliant domestic energy production. It can improve the daily lives of Nepali people and significantly strengthen the national economy.
However, with such great potential comes important responsibilities. Therefore, Nepal must give high priority to acquiring technical knowledge, ensuring safe gas management, and securing the exploration site effectively.
Learning from International Partners: Collaboration with Chinese Experts
The gas exploration project in Dailekh is being conducted with the assistance of the China Geological Survey and CNPC Xibu Drilling Engineering Company. These institutions have vast experience in natural gas extraction and deep underground drilling. For Nepal, this is a valuable opportunity to learn from Chinese experts and work closely with them.
Nepali technicians, engineers, geologists, and field assistants should be directly involved in drilling operations, sample testing, equipment handling, data analysis, and safety practices. Such training programs can be conducted in cooperation between Nepali universities and international partners, helping to build a skilled and capable workforce for the long term.
Safe Gas Management and Environmental Standards
Methane gas, while highly useful, is also extremely sensitive and can be dangerous if not handled properly. It is highly flammable, and any leakage into the environment can contribute significantly to climate change. Therefore, it is essential to manage this resource according to international safety standards. Key measures include:
Regular inspection of equipment and pipelines
Use of modern technologies for detecting gas leaks
Well-prepared emergency response plans
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and continuous monitoring
Nepal should work with Chinese experts for on-site demonstrations and safety training, and the government should establish an independent safety monitoring committee to ensure all standards are being met.
Site Management and Strengthening Security
The methane extraction site in Dailekh is of strategic importance to Nepal. Hence, the security of the site must be handled with great care. For this, several actions can be taken:
Regular patrolling and surveillance by security personnel
Installation of CCTV systems and controlled access points
Training and deployment of local security staff
Collaboration with local communities through clear communication, job opportunities, and fair benefit-sharing
For example, the central and local governments could jointly form a dedicated security unit to oversee the site. Providing employment opportunities to local residents and involving them in the project will help build long-term trust and success.
Skill Development for Long-Term Self-Reliance
What Nepal learns today will be the foundation for future independence and sustainable prosperity. Therefore, the government and private sector should begin investing in:
Technical education in fields like petroleum engineering, energy sciences, and environmental studies
Public–private partnerships to develop the energy sector
Research and innovation (such as green hydrogen production)
Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia began by relying on international expertise, and later developed their own domestic capabilities. Nepal can adopt a similar path, focusing on learning now to become self-reliant in the future.
Conclusion
The discovery of methane gas in Dailekh is not only an economic opportunity, but also a cultural, technical, and strategic milestone for Nepal. To fully benefit from it, Nepal must invest in technical knowledge, build a safe and efficient gas management system, and ensure the security of the site.
By learning from Chinese experts, building domestic capacity, and maintaining transparency and trust at the local level, this project can become a strong foundation for Nepal’s energy future. With careful planning, skilled execution, and cooperation across all levels, this discovery has the potential to become a source of national pride and long-term prosperity.
प्रतिकृया दिनुहोस