The government has lifted nationwide fuel rationing from Sunday, restoring normal fuel sales across the country.
Vehicles of all types can now purchase fuel without daily limits or restrictions, marking an end to the nine-day rationing system.
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam announced the decision on Saturday at an event in Gulistan, Dhaka. He said the move aims to ensure smooth travel for the public and uninterrupted transport of goods ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit announced the decision at a press conference at the Secretariat on Sunday.
However, he warned that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to stockpile fuel taking advantage of the situation.
The state minister said the government had earlier taken several measures, including introducing rationing in fuel distribution, to address supply disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict.
“Several imported oil-carrying vessels have already reached Chattogram Port,” he said.
Considering the upcoming Eid travel and the needs of farmers during the ongoing Boro cultivation season, the government has decided to lift all restrictions including fuel rationing, he added.
The move is expected to ease concerns among travellers and farmers ahead of Eid and the peak irrigation period of the Boro season.
The rationing system was introduced on 6 March after attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran created uncertainty over fuel-laden shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Panic over potential supply disruptions had led to a surge in fuel demand across the country.
During the rationing period, daily fuel limits were imposed: motorcycles could buy up to two litres, SUVs and microbuses 20–25 litres, pickups and local buses 70–80 litres, and long-distance buses, trucks, covered vans, and container lorries up to 220 litres.
Authorities later relaxed the limits, allowing ride-sharing motorcycles up to five litres and reducing overall rationing from 25 percent to 15 percent.
The government lifted rationing following the arrival of several imported shipments at Chattogram port.
