Bangladesh’s energy supply chain is expected to receive a significant boost as at least five vessels carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are scheduled to arrive in the country by April 15.
Officials said the scheduled arrivals indicate a gradual stabilisation in the country’s fuel supply situation, supported by easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and improved shipping movements in global energy markets.
The Chattogram Port Authority and shipping agents confirmed that the incoming cargoes include LNG for the Moheshkhali Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) and LPG shipments destined for the Chattogram terminal.
On April 10, LPG carrier Morning Jelly carrying 2,470 tonnes of LPG from Malaysia was scheduled to arrive at Chattogram Port.
On the same day, LNG carrier EMEI was expected to reach the Moheshkhali FSRU from the United States with approximately 69,000 tonnes of LNG.
Another LNG vessel, Kongtong, is set to arrive on April 11, also from the United States, carrying a similar volume of LNG.
On April 13, LPG carrier Paul is expected to arrive at Chattogram outer anchorage from Malaysia, while LNG carrier Maran Gas Hydra is likely to reach on April 15 from Australia with 64,678 tonnes of LNG.
Chattogram Port Authority Secretary Syed Refaet Hamim said all five vessels are currently en route and are being given priority berthing to ensure uninterrupted energy supply to the national grid and distribution system.
He added that port operations have been adjusted to facilitate timely unloading and minimiSe any disruption to fuel distribution.
Earlier, on Wednesday night, tanker MT Central Star arrived at Chattogram outer anchorage carrying 26,000 tonnes of octane from Malaysia and later berthed at the Dolphin Jetty in Patenga. Another tanker, Eastern Queen, carrying high-sulphur fuel oil, also arrived during the same period.
Officials said these shipments are part of ongoing efforts to maintain stable fuel availability in the domestic market amid fluctuating global prices.
Rupantarita Prakritik Gas Company Ltd (RPGCL) Deputy General Manager Engineer Mohammad Saifullah Kabir said a total of nine LNG cargoes are scheduled to arrive this month, of which two have already reached the country and discharge operations are currently underway.
He noted that each LNG vessel typically carries between 69,000 and 70,000 tonnes of gas, contributing significantly to power generation and industrial demand.
According to RPGCL sources, Bangladesh imported around 600,000 tonnes of LNG through eight vessels in March, which helped ease pressure on the country’s energy supply system and support electricity generation during peak demand periods.
MRAH/MHK