Fuel rationing lifted after oil arrival
Some relief has come for motorists and farmers alike as the government announced the end of fuel rationing, following weeks of panic buying and supply concerns triggered by the Middle East war.
When the conflict between Iran and Israel erupted on 28 February, widespread anxiety led to panic purchases of petrol, diesel, and octane.
People rushed to filling stations, standing in long queues, while some attempted to reserve fuel secretly. Law enforcement intercepted several cases and imposed fines, but frustration grew as supplies ran short.
To manage the surge, the government had introduced rationing earlier in March, limiting sales at filling stations. Even ride-share motorcycle operators initially faced strict limits, which were gradually eased.
Sales were initially capped at two litres per customer, later increased to five litres, with slightly higher limits for commercial users.
Deliveries were also adjusted to prioritise agricultural and industrial needs while reducing over-supply in urban areas.
Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources on Sunday, State Minister Anindya Islam Amit confirmed that all filling stations will now sell fuel according to actual demand.
“From today, there will be no restrictions on the purchase of petrol, diesel, or octane. Consumers can buy as per their needs until further instructions,” he said.
The lifting of restrictions coincides with the arrival of several imported fuel shipments at Chittagong port.
The state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) confirmed that multiple oil-carrying vessels, primarily carrying diesel, have reached the country, each with 25,000 to 30,000 tonnes of fuel.
A further shipment of furnace oil is expected on 17 or 18 March, while additional octane shipments are being procured internationally to supplement domestic production.
Bangladesh produces all of its petrol domestically, while roughly half of octane is imported. Diesel, which accounts for about 65 per cent of BPC’s total supply, is largely dependent on imports.
The country currently holds around 200,000 tonnes of diesel, with an additional 60,000 tonnes available for emergencies.
Petrol and octane reserves stand at approximately 16,000 tonnes each. Authorities expect no shortage in March, provided consumers avoid excessive purchases.
The minister emphasised that the government’s decision also aims to facilitate smooth transportation for the upcoming Eid festival and meet diesel requirements during the Boro planting season.
“We are mindful of the public’s travel needs and the importance of supporting farmers. Lifting all restrictions ensures fuel is available where it is needed most,” he said.
While international fuel markets have seen price increases due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, domestic fuel prices remain unchanged.
“Considering citizens’ hardships, the government has kept prices stable. There are currently no plans to increase them as long as the economy can absorb the cost,” the minister added.
To ensure proper distribution and prevent future shortages, the ministry is coordinating with relevant departments, district administrations, and the BPC.
Any failure to implement government directives or negligence will result in administrative action. The public has been urged to cooperate and avoid hoarding.
In recent weeks, filling stations in Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, and other cities saw queues stretching hundreds of metres, causing delays, disrupting businesses, and worrying farmers about diesel for irrigation.
Now, with imported shipments arriving and government restrictions removed, pressure on the fuel market is expected to ease.
Sources say that if consumers continue to act responsibly, Bangladesh should maintain steady fuel supply throughout March and the Boro cultivation season.
Concluding the press conference, the state minister urged vigilance against market irregularities. “Everyone must act responsibly. No one should attempt to accumulate fuel for personal gain. The government will ensure adequate supply for all, provided the public cooperates,” he said.
The lifting of fuel rationing marks a significant step in stabilising the country’s energy sector after weeks of panic and uncertainty, offering a much-needed reprieve to households, businesses, and farmers alike.
Meanwhile, Anindya Islam Amit, has instructed the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of the districts to take necessary measures to ensure discipline in the country’s fuel supply and marketing management.
The Minister emphasized the need for strict monitoring by district administrations to ensure the proper supply and distribution of fuel.
He outlined several key directives, emphasising the need for daily verification of both the initial and closing stock at fuel depots, with a requirement to report the findings regularly.
He stressed ensuring the smooth supply of fuel from depots to petrol pumps and monitoring the distribution to all customers, including petrol pump dealers, agency dealers, packed point dealers, and direct customers.
The Minister also directed officials to investigate the reasons behind any petrol pump closures, prevent illegal stockpiling and fuel smuggling, and ensure the security of fuel depots.
Additionally, he called for strict monitoring of fuel prices to avoid inflated rates and instructed exemplary punitive action against any criminal activities. Finally, he urged increased vigilance at the district level to enforce these measures effectively.
The Minister further stated, “The current democratic government is sincerely working to ease the people’s hardships. I urge everyone to remain aware and perform their duties with greater determination.”
Though the government has taken initiative to lift the rationing lift, many of the pumps were seen with huge rush of vehicles to fill the tanks of respective vehicles.
Meanwhile, President of the Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Distributors, Agents and Petrol Pump Owners Association Nazmul Hoque told the media that fuel have already reached numerous filling stations and the situation is expected to be normalised by Monday.
