The Dhaka-Chattogram underground oil pipeline, built to ensure faster and safer fuel transport, has officially started operations, marking a milestone for Bangladesh’s energy sector.
According to Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), the 241.28-kilometre pipeline will initially carry two million tonnes of fuel annually—about one-third of the country’s total supply—with the capacity to expand to five million tonnes in the future. BPC supplies around six million tonnes of fuel each year, including 4.6 million tonnes of diesel.
The pipeline is expected to significantly reduce system losses, with the maximum set at 0.05 percent, down from the current 0.17 percent. “This matches international standards, and our target is to reduce it even further,” said Energy Adviser Mohammad Fauzul Kabir Khan during the launch.
Construction of the project began in 2018 at a cost of Tk 3,653 crore from BPC’s own funds. The pipeline connects Eastern Refinery in Chattogram to Godnail and Fatullah depots in Narayanganj and features seven stations along the route. Three new storage tanks with a combined capacity of 90,000 tonnes have also been built for Padma, Meghna and Jamuna oil companies.
Officials said the pipeline will cut transportation delays and risks associated with traditional fuel-carrying vehicles, saving costs and boosting efficiency.
Following the inauguration, Fauzul Kabir joined a tree-planting programme and discussions with representatives from BPC, the Bangladesh Army and other organisations involved in the project.
