The government has adopted a tough stance against alleged syndicates accused of creating artificial shortages in the LPG market, aiming to ensure the supply of cylinders at regulated prices.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood made the remarks on Sunday while responding to a written question in the National Parliament session chaired by Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal.
The question was raised by Pabna-5 lawmaker Md Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas.
The minister said authorities have been directed to intensify monitoring at the field level and take strict legal action against hoarders and those manipulating the LPG market.
He informed the Parliament that regular mobile court operations are being conducted across the country, while deputy commissioners and superintendents of police have been instructed to take firm legal steps against individuals and businesses involved in stockpiling or creating artificial supply disruptions.
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said the Energy and Mineral Resources Division has already written to the Cabinet Division requesting necessary measures to ensure compliance with government-fixed LPG prices.
The home ministry has also been requested to instruct law enforcement agencies to act against offenders.
He added that mobile courts are actively conducting drives nationwide, and establishments found guilty of hoarding are being fined and temporarily shut down.
The Directorate of National Consumers’ Right Protection has been directed to strengthen market surveillance and continue regular enforcement operations.
The minister further said that the LPG Operators Association of Bangladesh (LOAB) has been instructed to coordinate efforts to ensure the sale of LPG at government-set prices.
He noted that around 98.67 percent of the country’s LPG demand is met through imports.
In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, import data is being closely monitored through the National Board of Revenue’s ASYCUDA World System to prevent any disruption in supply.
He also cautioned that any irregularities in imports would prompt immediate action by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).
