Dhaka, Jan. 12 -- A crippling shortage of Liquefied Petroleum (LP) gas has taken hold across Shariatpur district, effectively shuttering domestic kitchens and driving a surge in demand for prepared meals.

Local stocks have evaporated despite the presence of 20 regional distributors, with inventory levels reportedly hitting zero across most major brands.

Market inquiries indicate that a negligible quantity of Total Gas cylinders remains in the hands of select vendors, albeit at a significant premium.

Retail rates for a 12kg unit have surged past the Tk 1,500 mark.

Compounding the financial burden, the available stock requires a size-20 regulator. Since most households utilise size-22 fittings, families are being forced to invest in new...