MP Rumeen Farhana says 12kg LPG cylinder sells far above government-fixed rate

The independent MP tells parliament that people in Brahmanbaria are not benefiting from the natural gas resources stored there

A widening gap between regulated prices and market reality has come under scrutiny in parliament, with Independent MP Rumeen Farhana alleging that consumers are paying significantly more than the government-fixed rate for liquefied petroleum gas.

Speaking during discussions on non-government business on Thursday, the Brahmanbaria-2 lawmaker said a 12kg LPG cylinder -- officially priced at Tk 1,940 -- is being sold for no less than Tk 2,200 in the market.

She placed a proposal seeking new residential gas connections in her constituency, arguing that despite being a gas-rich district, Brahmanbaria’s residents are largely excluded from its benefits.

“Gas from Brahmanbaria is supplied all over Bangladesh, but the people of Brahmanbaria do not get gas supply,” she said.

Describing acute hardship in Sarail, she said gas pressure remains weak from 7am to 2pm, leaving stoves barely functional.

At times, supply appears briefly before disappearing again until night, a situation that worsens in winter, she added.

Although new residential connections have been suspended since 2016, she alleged that illegal connections continue through collusion by dishonest officials, causing revenue losses and depriving legitimate users.

She also pointed to the lack of viable alternatives.

“Although LPG is officially priced at Tk 1,940, it cannot be found below Tk 2,200. In rural areas, load shedding can last up to 14 hours. Without gas, there is no fuel to cook,” she said.

“My demand is that Brahmanbaria’s gas should first serve its own people,” she added.

Responding, Power Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said reduced pipeline pressure has constrained supply, forcing prioritisation of industrial demand.

He blamed the previous government for neglecting exploration and leaving behind heavy dues, adding that new efforts to strengthen BAPEX and revive abandoned fields could improve supply.

He also confirmed that gas supply to the idle Ashuganj Fertiliser Factory will resume from May 1, despite potential impacts on power generation, citing agricultural needs.