United News of Bangladesh

Long queues formed in Rangpur city on Wednesday as residents lined up to buy subsidised essential goods from the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB), which launched truck-based sales at 15 areas in the city ahead of of Ramadan. With TCB trucks operating in 15 out of 33 wards in Rangpur city, many low- and middle-income people were seen waiting early in the morning at spots where the trucks would be stationed. People said they faced hardship in accessing the goods and called for one TCB truck per ward to ease the situation. Under the programme that started on Tuesday, consumers can buy soybean oil, lentils, sugar, chickpeas, and dates at prices lower than the regular market rate. The initiative will continue until March 12. According to TCB officials, chickpeas and dates have been added to the regular Ramadan items. Each package is priced at Tk 590. Nearly 400 customers can purchase goods from each truck daily, allowing around 6,000 people to benefit each day. Bablu Mia, who came to buy TCB goods, said, “For poor families, TCB supplies are a big help. With the current market situation, this service is beneficial even temporarily. Though the range of goods is limited, we hope it continues throughout Ramadan.” Another resident, Romjan Ali, said, “In Bangladesh, prices of all food items usually double during Ramadan. For low-income people like us, this month is very difficult. TCB’s subsidised goods are a good initiative, but more trucks would make it easier for everyone to access them.” Essentials’ prices hike in Sylhet ahead of Ramadan, SCC price list ignored Kulsun Begum, a day labourer, said, “We live hand to mouth. I have been waiting in line since morning, but I still haven’t received anything. We have no guarantee when we will get the items. Poor people have no choice but to wait in line.” Habibur Rahman, regional deputy director and office head of TCB in Rangpur, said the goods will be sold daily except on public holidays. Both family cardholders and general customers can purchase the items. He said to ensure low-income people in Rangpur city can access the goods, sales will take place at different spots on different days. Currently, 15 trucks are operating in Rangpur city while sales continue at five points in Lalmonirhat, Kurigram, and Nilphamari districts.