Long queues for fuel were seen across the capital on Eid day, underscoring ongoing supply pressures that have persisted for more than two weeks despite the lifting of government-imposed rationing.
Visits to several filling stations around 12:00 pm on Saturday showed lines of private vehicles and motorcycles stretching well beyond pump premises. Many motorists reported waiting between one and two hours to refuel.
The situation follows earlier government measures to ration fuel distribution in response to tightening supply. Although those restrictions have since been withdrawn, congestion at fuel stations has continued, with demand remaining high during the holiday period.
The strain on fuel availability is being linked to disruptions in global energy supply, particularly amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit route for global oil shipments, has contributed to market instability, affecting countries including Bangladesh.
Industry observers note that a significant portion of global crude oil supply passes through the region, making the impact widespread.
At the Asad Gate area in Dhaka, one of two fuel stations was found closed, increasing pressure on nearby facilities. The operational station experienced heavy congestion, with long queues forming from early hours.
Similar scenes were observed at other stations, where customers waited in orderly lines for extended periods.
Fuel station operators said they had anticipated lower demand during Eid, expecting many residents to leave the capital. However, demand remained steady, with many customers appearing to have delayed purchases in expectation of reduced crowds.
“We began fuel sales after Eid prayers, but the queues have remained consistent and are expected to continue throughout the day,” a station employee said.
“I came before 11:00 am and have already been waiting over an hour,” said one rider, adding that it could take another 15–20 minutes to reach the pump.
Another motorcyclist said he had postponed refueling in anticipation of lighter crowds on Eid day, only to encounter longer lines than usual.
Others reported that personal plans had been disrupted due to delays at fuel stations.
The effects of global supply disruptions began to be felt in Bangladesh earlier this month, when several fuel stations temporarily halted operations and others introduced controlled sales under government directives.
Although rationing has been lifted, the situation has yet to return to normal. Officials maintain that while supply remains under pressure, there is no indication of a severe nationwide fuel shortage at present.
KR/MHK