Consumers frustrated and angry over soaring cooking gas prices across Barishal

The price of LPG is rising every day across the Barishal region. At the same time, the supply of the liquefied gas is declining. The price of a 12.5kg cylinder has already reached nearly Tk 1,900. Just two months ago, it was Tk 1,450. Dealers said the supply of LPG has also been declining continuously for the past 15 days.
The supply of LPG at various filling stations has also fallen sharply as prices have increased. As a result, three-wheelers and other vehicles are facing difficulties due to the gas shortage. Long queues for gas can be seen every day at filling stations across Barishal city and the surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, eight gas companies, including Bashundhara and Orion, have stopped marketing their products in Barishal. This has further worsened the crisis.
Several local retailers alleged that they have to pay around Tk 1,650 to companies in advance to obtain a 12.5kg gas cylinder. After adding transportation and other costs, they have no option to sell it for less than Tk 1,800. However, instead of adjusting the gas price after considering the situation, the administration is allegedly harassing them in various ways. Several traders said they may eventually be forced to stop selling gas.
On the other hand, general consumers said the government could keep LPG prices at a tolerable level by providing tax concessions in the public interest, even if prices rise in the international market. Angry consumers said the administration appears to have little concern about the issue.
Most families expressed deep frustration and anger over the soaring price of cooking gas.