Rising LPG Prices Frustrate Consumers Across Barishal Region

The price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is rising every day across the Barishal region, while supplies are also declining. No LPG station in Barishal city has had autogas for vehicles for nearly 15 days. The supply of LPG is falling across the region. The price of a 12.5kg cooking gas cylinder has already reached Tk 1,900, up from Tk 1,450 just two months ago. Dealers also said the supply of bottled LPG is gradually reaching a critically low level.

The supply of LPG at various filling stations has also dropped sharply as prices have increased. As a result, three-wheelers and other vehicles are facing difficulties due to the gas shortage. Long queues for LPG are being seen every day at filling stations across Barishal city and the wider region.

Meanwhile, eight LPG marketing companies, including Bashundhara and Orion, have already stopped marketing their products in Barishal, further deepening the crisis. Several local retailers alleged that although they have to pay companies Tk 1,650 in advance for a 12.5kg cylinder, they cannot sell it for less than Tk 1,800 after adding transport and other costs.

They also alleged that instead of understanding the situation and adjusting the price accordingly, the administration is subjecting them to various forms of harassment. Several traders said they may eventually be forced to stop selling LPG if the situation continues.

Consumers, meanwhile, said the government could keep LPG prices at a manageable level by offering 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 households have expressed deep frustration and anger over the sharply rising price of cooking gas.