Kathmandu, November 18 The Government of Japan has expressed deep concern about the current fuel crisis and shortage of essential goods in Nepal. Issuing a statement today, Japanese embassy in Kathmandu stated that the shortages of petroleum products and other essentials have made the lives of Nepali people difficult and also hampered post-earthquake reconstruction efforts. This is the first time that the Japanese government spoke against the unofficial blockade imposed by India against Nepal. Last week, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon had also expressed serious concern about the protracted delay in easing supplies through Nepal-India crossing points and urged all sides to end the situation without further delay. He had also underlined Nepal’s rights of a hassle-free transit and access to the sea. “Japan is deeply concerned that the present shortage of essentials is having an adverse impact on the lives of Nepali peoplel,” it said. Japan also cautioned that the fuel crisis has prevented post-earthquake relief efforts.“We sincerely hope that the current situation gets resolved peacefully,” read the statement.