Amid long queues snaking outside fuel stations across the country, the government has moved swiftly to calm nerves, firmly assuring citizens and businesses that fuel supplies remain fully adequate and there is no shortage.
In a strongly worded press release issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, quoting the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, stated that the stockpile and supply chain of petroleum products – including petrol, octane, and diesel – are “completely normal.”
“The government requests everyone not to panic and refrain from buying extra fuel,” the release emphasised.
Safety first, hoarding dangerous
The ministry issued a clear warning: petrol, octane, and diesel are highly flammable substances, and illegal storage at homes, shops, or warehouses poses serious fire and safety risks. It urged the public to avoid hoarding and to warn others against the practice.
“Legal action is already underway against illegal storage of fuel oil,” the statement added. Mobile courts, led by Executive Magistrates, are actively operating in every district to enforce compliance. The government has made it clear: “Say no to illegal storage.”
No price hike on the horizon
Adding to the reassurance, the ministry noted that the government has not increased fuel prices so far. It cautioned against hoarding in anticipation of future profits, warning that such attempts would invite strict legal consequences.
“Necessary actions are being taken in this regard,” it said.
Steady imports to meet demand
To ensure an uninterrupted supply, Bangladesh continues to procure the required volumes of fuel oil from the international market in line with domestic demand. The release stressed there is “no fear of any fuel supply shortage.”
The message comes against the backdrop of heightened anxiety triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted global energy markets and sparked rumours of potential shortages. While some stations have seen temporary stock depletion due to unusually high demand from panic buying, authorities insist the underlying reserves are sufficient.
Call for responsible behaviour
The government appealed for public cooperation, reminding citizens that unnecessary stockpiling only strains the normal distribution system and creates artificial pressure at retail points.
Businesses, transporters, and individual consumers have been advised to purchase only what they need for day-to-day operations. With steady imports and active monitoring, the supply chain is expected to normalise quickly once panic subsides.
For now, the clear message from the authorities is calm and measured: Fuel stocks are secure. There is no need to rush.
This development will be closely watched by the transport sector, industries, and everyday consumers, as Bangladesh navigates global energy volatility while maintaining domestic stability.