LPG Cylinders Used as Risky Fuel in Mohanganj CNG-Powered Autorickshaws

CNG-powered autorickshaws on the Mohanganj-Mymensingh road in Netrokona are being run on cooking LPG cylinders due to a prolonged gas shortage also putting passengers at serious risk. Drivers are tying the cylinders behind passenger seats and locals fear a fire or explosion could occur at any time. Passengers are also being charged higher fares.

The shortage stems from the district's only CNG filling station A.R. Khan Pathan CNG and Filling Station where the drivers often wait over 24 hours without getting gas. Fearing loss of income and many have turned to LPG cylinders as an alternative. Nearly every autorickshaw parked at the Mohanganj CNG station now carries a cooking cylinder tied behind the seats.

Mohanganj resident Md. Rafiq Ahmed Russell said passengers are forced to travel at risk while also paying more fares from Mohanganj to Netrokona have risen from Tk.100 to Tk.150.

CNG driver Regan Mia said he only turned to LPG because of the gas crisis. With hours-long queues and no guarantee of fuel, he said he has no choice but to keep driving to support his family and pay bank installments.

A Mohanganj Fire Service official warned that LPG is highly flammable and can explode if cylinders are damaged or mishandled also calling the practice especially dangerous in passenger vehicles. He said legal action would be taken if instructed by higher authorities.