Octane shortages have hit petrol pumps in Barishal, with drivers receiving only two litres of petrol at a time. Diesel distribution, however, remains normal.
Many vehicle owners were seen leaving empty‑handed from city pumps after failing to find octane on Saturday. The same situation was observed at fuelling stations in New Market, Nathullabad, Kashipur, and Rupatali.
Some stations displayed signs reading “No Octane” and “No Petrol,” leaving motorcycle and private car drivers frustrated.
Motorcyclists said fears of a global oil crisis due to the Iran war had prompted many to stockpile fuel, worsening the shortage. Pump officials confirmed octane ran out two days ago but said supplies may normalise by Sunday.
They noted that panic buying has intensified the crisis. Currently, petrol is rationed at two litres per motorcycle and 10 litres per private car.
Masud, a motorcyclist, said he had enough fuel for travel but came to fill his tank out of fear of future shortages. Sabuj, a private car driver at Suravi Filling Station in Nathullabad, said he had to return after failing to get octane, adding that he will rely on petrol if supplies do not improve.
Abdur Rob Sikdar, manager of Israel Filling Station in New Market, said the shortage was caused by insufficient imports but assured efforts were underway to stabilise the situation. He also expressed hope that supply would return to normal by Sunday.
