LPG issue

2. Does the policy prescribe 'replacing existing pipelines' or supplying LPG to newer establishments only? Why should we destroy the expensive infrastructure that exists already?

3. Do we have any idea how will the cost of LPG increase because of unofficial 'toll takers' on the streets when the whole nation becomes dependent on this commodity? Piped gas can at least flow without being charged by such elements.

4. In quantitative terms can we have an estimate what percentage of the total national gas output is wasted by housewives, and what percentage in the form of tampered meters or unpaid bills? Is the LPG option for households cost effective? (As I believe piped gas will still flow to the establishments consuming the bulk of it).

5. Can we not spend some money into media campaigning for not wasting gas? This may be a better investment than replacing the existing infrastructure.

6. Can we not have a pre-paid gas meter if the wastage is beyond acceptable limits? Every house can have one at their own costs. To make it affordable give a project with reasonable money and time to local technologists. BUET has already developed a prepaid meter for electricity, similar meter for gas should also be possible locally. I am ready to take up this technology challenge if required funds are given, but there should be assurance that the product would be ordered for local use if tested satisfactory, and that similar finished item would not be imported at low tax while imposing high taxes on the raw materials for its local fabrication.

Sadly enough, I mention this last clause out of real life experience over many years. (A recent report says that prepaid electricity meters would be imported for distribution in certain areas in Chittagong. Why take up this import based project when BUET people have developed the item successfully?)