LPG retailers blame government for LPG crisis since mid-Nov

Retailers say they did not stock LPG

An LPG station and conversion owners’ association has sharply criticised the government over the ongoing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage, which has been causing widespread disruption since mid-November.

Hasin Pervez, general secretary of the Bangladesh LPG Autogas Station and Conversion Workshop Owner’s Association, said the crisis began in November, but the LPG businessmen were never informed about it.

The association's President Mohammad Serajul Mawla placed a number of demands at a press conference held at Dhaka Reporters’ Unity on Saturday.

Demanding a swift resolution, they said the transport sector is facing a severe crisis, and the entire LPG autogas industry is on the “verge of collapse” due to an uncertain gas supply.

“We have not received any explanation. LPG is essential -- without it, people cannot cook even if they have other basic items,” he said.

He said that regardless of the cause, the authorities had the opportunity to inform people about the shortage and its expected duration, allowing them to plan and cope with the crisis according to their capacity.

He added that the government should now clarify how long the crisis will persist so that the people can plan whether they want to use electric or firewood stoves for cooking.

Serajul cited contractual issues among gas pumps and suppliers, saying that suppliers are refusing to give gas beyond their contracts even during the crisis.

He warned that if the crisis continues, pressure will shift to octane, potentially causing shortages. The association urges the government to communicate the situation clearly and ensure supply to prevent further disruption to the transport sector and the LPG industry.