Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has instructed deputy commissioners (DCs) to investigate whether liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is being sold at higher prices by creating artificial shortages in any part of the country.
He issued the directive during an online meeting with DCs at the Secretariat on Wednesday.
The minister said there was no shortage of LPG supply in the country. However, artificial shortages might have been created in some areas to charge customers extra prices.
He instructed the DCs to provide information and evidence on why LPG shortages were being reported despite normal supply and why consumers were being charged higher prices.
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said necessary measures would be taken after receiving information from the DCs through discussions with importers and other relevant stakeholders.
He said initiatives would be taken to increase supply in areas where shortages were identified.
The minister warned that action would be taken against those involved in creating artificial shortages or selling LPG above the price set by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).
He also directed district administrations to remain more active and vigilant to ensure a stable LPG supply situation across the country.
