DCs directed to monitor LPG supply and prices

Bangla Press Desk:  The government has directed the deputy commissioners (DCs) across the country to investigate whether artificial shortages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are being created to facilitate its sales at prices higher than the government-approved rate.

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood made the directive during an online meeting with district administrators at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

This directive came amid growing complaints of LPG shortages and excessive pricing in several parts of the country despite assurances from the businessmen that national supply remained adequate.

Consumers are facing difficulties with obtaining LPG and being charged more than the prices set by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), market insiders said.

Sometimes the price gap between the market price and the BERC-fixed price crosses over Tk 300 per 12 kg LPG cylinder, they added

The minister instructed the DCs to examine the reasons behind the reported shortages, identify areas where supply has declined, and determine whether any individuals or businesses are deliberately creating any scarcity to manipulate the market.

District administrations have been asked to collect evidence and submit detailed reports on the situation.

The government will review the findings and hold discussions with LPG importers and other stakeholders before taking necessary steps to address any irregularities.

"We want to know where supply disruptions are occurring, why LPG is being sold above the prescribed rate, and whether any artificial crisis is being created in the market," he said during the meeting.

Mahmood warned that the government would not tolerate attempts to inflate prices through artificial shortages.

The adviser further directed district administrations to remain vigilant and strengthen monitoring efforts to ensure a stable supply of LPG across the country.

Market insiders alleged that retail prices surged well beyond official rates in some areas.

In several districts, the price of a 12-kilogram LPG cylinder has reportedly exceeded Tk 2,000, raising concerns among households that rely heavily on the fuel for cooking and other daily needs.