State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit has assured the public that there are no plans to increase fuel prices despite recent anxiety and long queues at petrol stations across the country.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Anindya Islam acknowledged the public’s concerns but emphasised that there is currently no fuel supply shortage.
“Over the past week, demand surged to two to three times the usual level, leading to increased queues,” he said. “This was likely caused by panic buying or other factors, but supply has remained steady and adequate.”
The state minister announced that the government has increased the fuel ration for ride-sharing drivers-from two liters to five liters-to alleviate their difficulties during the heightened demand period.
This move aims to support drivers working with platforms like Uber and Pathao, who often face long waits at filling stations.
The state minister also clarified that the main fuels in demand are petrol and octane, which are largely produced domestically.
“Most of the petrol used in Bangladesh is refined locally, and the majority of octane is also sourced domestically,” he said, adding that there has been no shortage of these fuels at any petrol station.
Regarding supply logistics, Anindya Islam revealed that two ships carrying approximately 30,000 tonnes of fuel each have recently arrived, with one already unloaded and the other expected to be cleared shortly.
Another shipment is scheduled to arrive on 12 March. Preparations are underway to secure supplies for April and May, including exploring imports from Africa and the United States.
Informal requests have also been made to the Indian government to increase fuel supplies.
Despite occasional waiting times, the state minister assured consumers that fuel prices will remain unchanged for the time being. “Since prices have not increased, I expect current concerns to ease soon,” he added.
