Fuel Supply Set to Rise as Govt Moves to Ease Shortage

Authorities have decided to increase the supply of octane, petrol and diesel from Sunday to ease pressure on filling stations, where long queues have formed amid rising demand.

The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation has instructed its three marketing companies—Padma Oil Company, Meghna Petroleum Limited and Jamuna Oil Company—to increase fuel distribution across the country.

Officials said demand at petrol pumps has surged by around 30 per cent compared with normal levels. However, supply had been based on last year’s allocations, resulting in shortages. The new plan aims to raise supply beyond that baseline, with support from district administrations to assess real-time demand and recommend allocations.

Diesel, which accounts for about 63 per cent of total fuel use, has been most affected. Delays in shipments linked to tensions in the Middle East led to a drop in stock by around 150,000 tonnes last month. At the same time, fears of disruption prompted many consumers to purchase more fuel than usual, further straining supply.

Officials said about 102,000 tonnes of diesel are currently in stock, with more than 100,000 tonnes expected from incoming shipments. Daily diesel supply is set to rise by around 10 per cent to over 13,000 tonnes.

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit said the current spike in demand is unusual, as fuel consumption typically grows by only 4 to 5 per cent annually. Still, the government is increasing supply to reduce public suffering.

Octane supply is also being raised to meet growing demand, particularly from private vehicles and motorcycles. Current reserves stand at around 29,000 tonnes, while a fresh shipment of 25,000 tonnes has recently arrived. Authorities said there is no immediate shortage of octane, but distribution is being expanded to manage pressure at filling stations.

Petrol supply will also increase, with an additional 137 tonnes to be added daily. Although petrol is fully produced domestically, it depends on imported raw materials, which can affect output.

Fuel retailers said most pumps have been selling out within a few hours, highlighting the need to widen distribution beyond retail outlets to dealers and agents.

Energy expert Ijaz Hossain said increasing supply is a positive step but may not fully resolve the situation. He noted that public concern over availability is driving excess demand and suggested improving supply channels and management systems to stabilise the market.