Fuel supply stable but anxiety rises nationwide

The government has reiterated that no decision has been taken to increase fuel prices, even as growing concerns emerge over global oil market instability triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Across the country, including the capital, a sense of unease is building among the public, despite authorities insisting that domestic fuel supplies remain stable.

Officials said that Bangladesh currently maintains a one-month fuel reserve, with plans underway to expand the stockpile further.

Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Nasimul Ghani told reporters at the Secretariat following a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman that the nation’s fuel reserves are sufficient to meet current demand.

“There is a sufficient reserve of fuel oil. We have stock for one month,” he said during an evening briefing at the Department of Information conference room.

The escalating tensions in the Gulf region have disrupted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key channel for global energy transportation.

The disruption has already affected international markets, hitting countries heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil. Global fuel and gas prices have fluctuated sharply in recent weeks, highlighting the fragile state of supply chains linked to Iran and other Gulf producers.

Several Asian nations have expressed concern over the situation. The Philippines, for example, has declared a state of emergency in response to an acute fuel shortage, underscoring the severity of the crisis in parts of the region.

While Bangladesh is not facing an immediate shortage, authorities acknowledge that prolonged disruptions could pose serious risks. Citizens have been urged to use fuel and gas cautiously as a preventive measure.

Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon reiterated on Wednesday that there is no plan to raise fuel prices. Speaking at a Dhaka press briefing, he said domestic fuel prices remain significantly lower than those in neighbouring countries.

He also noted that a cabinet committee, led by the finance minister, is closely monitoring the situation and has so far managed emerging challenges effectively, helping to prevent a crisis.

Despite official reassurances, public anxiety has been rising, partly fuelled by reports circulating on social media.

Panic buying has been reported at several fuel stations, with motorists rushing to stock up amid fears of future shortages or price increases. Swapon warned that such behaviour places additional pressure on supply chains and called on the media to promote awareness and discourage unnecessary stockpiling.

“In our political and social context, some groups may try to exploit such situations. That is why it is important to build public awareness against this panic-buying mentality,” he said.

Zahed Ur Rahman, Information and Broadcasting Adviser to the Prime Minister, also urged restraint among consumers and fuel station operators. He warned fuel pump owners against hoarding supplies in anticipation of a price hike, noting that such behaviour would not benefit them.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East leaves uncertainties over global oil supply unresolved. Analysts say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Bangladesh can maintain current fuel prices or will be forced to reconsider if disruptions continue.

Meanwhile, local enforcement action has begun. Police in Jamalpur arrested seven individuals on Wednesday for allegedly stockpiling 3,053 litres of petrol for illegal sale. Residents reported local shortages, with several petrol stations closing or limiting supply. Where fuel is available, prices have reportedly surged in both legitimate and black markets, causing hardship for ordinary consumers.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasising that current reserves are sufficient but cautioning that prolonged global instability could test supply chains. In the meantime, the government has urged citizens to remain calm, avoid panic buying, and cooperate with official guidance to ensure fair and steady fuel distribution.