Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan today assured the public that there is no fuel crisis in the country, urging citizens to disregard rumors proliferating on social media. He emphasized the importance of avoiding panic buying and unnecessary purchases that stem from these unfounded claims, during a press briefing held at the secretariat.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yeaser Khan Choudhury and adviser on the ministry Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman were also present at the briefing. Swapan attributed current challenges to the previous government’s import-dependent fuel policy but assured that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s directives, the situation is being managed efficiently. He emphasized that the nation has sufficient fuel reserves to maintain prices at a reasonable level compared to neighboring countries.
The minister further elaborated that a high-level cabinet committee, led by the finance minister, is vigilantly monitoring the situation, especially in light of global conflicts and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. He confirmed that there have been no decisions to increase fuel prices at this time.
Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, responding to journalists’ questions, reiterated that there is no fuel crisis and highlighted that planned rationing is being implemented to stabilize the supply chain. He cautioned that public panic buying imposes undue pressure on the supply system and clarified that this approach is a precautionary measure given the global circumstances.
Furthermore, Dr. Rahman addressed fuel pump owners, noting that the prime minister has explicitly stated there is no intention to raise fuel prices. He warned that any attempts to hoard fuel in anticipation of a price hike would provoke government action. He also called on the media to act responsibly by curbing such practices and enhancing public awareness.