LPG prices nearly double in Bandarban

A shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has pushed the price of 12-kilogramme cylinders in Bandarban town to Tk 3,300-3,500, nearly double the government-fixed price of Tk 1,850.

Customers alleged that many traders were refusing to exchange empty cylinders for refilled ones, forcing them to buy new cylinders instead.

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Imma Marma, a resident of Madhyampara, said her family ran out of gas on Sunday. After her husband called several shops, traders told them they would have to buy a new cylinder for Tk 3,500.

“We have not been able to cook anything since. Our children were fed bread purchased from outside at night,” she said.

During a visit to several LPG sales points yesterday, this correspondent found many shops locked from outside, although lights were on inside and cylinders were stacked in rows.

Posing as a customer, this correspondent contacted seven LPG dealers and retailers by phone. Several said they were selling LPG despite keeping their shops closed, but were not offering refills in exchange for empty cylinders. They quoted Tk 3,300-3,500 for a new cylinder.

Angchamong Marma, president of the district unit of the Anti-Corruption Prevention Committee, alleged that traders were exploiting the shortage and urged the district administration to take legal action.

Rana Dey, an official of the Directorate of National Consumers’ Right Protection in Bandarban, did not respond to calls seeking comment.

Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Md Lutfur Rahman said, “There has been no complaint so far. However, I will look into the matter, and if evidence is found that LPG is being sold at inflated prices, legal action will be taken.”