LPG dealers call 2-day sales stoppage from Thursday
Traders threaten indefinite shutdown if three demands not met by Friday.
Highlights:
- Dealers demand stopping LPG price changes after govt rates
- Two-day shutdown to revise commissions, end harassment
- They threaten indefinite strike if demands unmet
- Commission examining demands, to take steps soon, Berc says
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distributors have announced a two-day nationwide shutdown of LPG shops from Thursday, demanding higher distributors' commissions, an end to alleged harassment by law enforcement agencies, and the revival of idle cylinders.
Selim Khan, president of the LPG Gas Traders Cooperative Association, announced the programme at a press conference at the National Press Club in Dhaka today (12 October).
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He warned that traders would enforce an indefinite nationwide shutdown if their demands were not met by Friday.
The distributors also demanded that LPG companies stop changing prices after the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (Berc) announces its monthly rates, insisting that any subsequent adjustments be made through the regulator.
They also called for thousands of idle LPG cylinders to be brought back into circulation, saying many companies had ceased operations while others could not open letters of credit (LCs) to import LPG.
According to Selim, only six or seven companies remain active, leaving several hundred thousand cylinders unused nationwide.
He urged the government or LPG companies to refill the idle cylinders and distribute them through dealers to ensure a fair supply to consumers.
The traders also protested what they described as unjustified fines and harassment by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection and executive magistrates.
Selim said, "The Berc chairman had contacted me during the press conference, saying the commission was reviewing the traders' demands and would take steps soon.
