Villa Gas. (Sun Photo/Mohamed Naail Hussain)
Villa has also reduced its gas sales as the ongoing supply issue at Maldive Gas remains unresolved.
Maldive Gas, a subsidiary of state‑owned STO, recently began selling only 7 kg of gas per cylinder instead of the usual 10 kg, prompting widespread complaints over shortages and long delivery delays.
An employee of Maldive Gas earlier told Sun on condition of anonymity that the company was temporarily sourcing gas from Villa until its own shipment arrives on the 15th of this month. However, checks on Sunday confirmed that Maldive Gas is still selling reduced‑quantity cylinders.
Sun has also learned that Villa has now begun rationing its own gas sales.
When customers contacted Villa Gas to place orders, they were informed that instead of the standard 10 kg cylinder sold for MVR 200, gas is now being sold at MVR 140 per kg. Staff described the change as temporary. Another customer was told the reduction was due to low stock levels.
Villa Gas could not be reached for official comment.
Last Monday, STO said the reduced gas quantity was caused by disruptions in regional supply markets. Both major importers, STO and Villa, have periodically rationed gas during supply fluctuations.
STO has stated that the issue will be resolved this week, after which 10 kg cylinders will be sold as normal.