Govt won’t allow strike to disrupt LPG supply: Minister

LPG traders have withdrawn their announced two-day nationwide strike scheduled for October 15 and 16 following a meeting with Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood and Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Wednesday.

The Bangladesh LPG Traders Co-operative Association announced the shutdown on October 12, demanding higher commissions and protesting alleged harassment of traders.

Speaking at a press briefing after the meeting, Iqbal Hassan Mahmood warned of strict legal action against anyone attempting to disrupt supplies of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

“If anyone tries to enforce a strike over an essential commodity at a time like this, we will apply the law enacted in 1956. They cannot call strikes at will to push up prices. This will not be accepted,” he said.

The minister urged traders to resolve their grievances through discussions rather than disrupt supplies, assuring them that the government would take steps to protect consumers.

He said the global energy sector was facing severe challenges due to the ongoing war, with fuel prices fluctuating sharply and supply sources becoming increasingly uncertain.

“At present, the United States is the only reliable source left, while other sources are uncertain. We are discussing ways to keep prices at a tolerable level for consumers,” he said.

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir also warned against market manipulation, artificial shortages and disruptions to supply chains to press business demands.

Citing the Essential Commodities Act, 1956, he said businesses must act responsibly and resolve disputes over profits, losses and commissions through discussions rather than putting consumers in hardship.

Senior officials from the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation, Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of Explosives and leading LPG companies attended the meeting.