Consumers at Kawkhali upazila of Pirojpur district have raised concerns over irregularities in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) market, alleging that a group of traders is controlling supply and driving up prices without proper oversight.
Although the government-fixed price for a 12-kg LPG cylinder is 1,728 taka, as set by Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission, cylinders are being sold in local markets for around 2,000 taka or more.
In some cases, the price is even higher, creating a disorderly market situation.
Traders said that brands such as Bashundhara, Beximco Delta, Fresh, Dubai, Petromax, G-Gas and Omera were previously available in the market.
However, supply from several companies has declined significantly in recent months. Some companies reportedly stopped supplying cylinders to dealers, including Beximco and Bashundhara for a period.
Although supply has partially resumed, prices remain high. Increased transportation costs have also made it difficult for dealers to distribute cylinders to retail outlets.
A recent visit to several markets, including South and North Bazaars in the upazila, found that dealers and retailers are setting prices at their discretion. Most shops do not display price lists and there are allegations of stockpiling to create artificial shortages.
Local resident Tarikul Islam expressed frustration, saying that while media reports indicate stable or reduced prices, the situation in shops is very different.
He said it is nearly impossible to buy a cylinder for less than 2,000 taka and blamed the lack of government monitoring.
Another resident, Afroza Begum, said she has never been able to purchase LPG at official price.
She alleged that sellers often claim there is no stock, but cylinders become available if customers agree to pay higher prices. She described the situation as a normal practice of irregularity.
Consumers have also complained about the lack of visible action from the administration to control the market. The absence of regular monitoring or mobile court operations has allowed dishonest traders to act freely.
Pirojpur Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection Assistant Director Debashish Roy said that authorities are conducting regular market monitoring and have received information about price manipulation.
He added that legal action will be taken if specific complaints are submitted.
RHR/SH
