Chattogram: Bangladesh is currently holding its highest-ever fuel reserves, as announced by State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Anindya Islam Amit. He confirmed that the nation’s fuel supplies are adequate to meet demands for April and May, with measures in place to ensure a continuous supply in June. This announcement was made during the minister’s visit to Eastern Refinery Limited (ERL) in Chattogram.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ministry has reported that the current fuel stock includes 113,085 tonnes of diesel, 31,821 tonnes of octane, 18,021 tonnes of petrol, and 77,546 tonnes of furnace oil. Additionally, the country has received 5,000 tonnes of diesel from India through the Friendship Pipeline, with an extra 8,000 metric tonnes delivered on April 14. Another 7,000 metric tonnes are expected within the next few days.
The state minister highlighted plans to install a second unit at Eastern Refinery to enhance its capacity and bolster the nation’s energy security. This expansion comes in response to the temporary shutdown of current refining operations, which has led to increased dependency on imported refined fuel. The second unit is projected to be operational by 2029, significantly boosting the country’s ability to locally refine crude oil and diversify fuel sources.
Minister Amit also addressed disruptions in fuel imports during March and April, emphasizing ongoing efforts to ensure sufficient supply for June. The government is actively working to maintain an uninterrupted energy supply across all sectors, with initiatives underway to import both refined fuel and crude oil from alternative sources, such as Malaysia.
Priority in power management is being given to the agricultural and industrial sectors to mitigate the current energy situation. While household consumers might experience limited load shedding, the focus will shift back to them once the harvest season begins in May.
The announcement was made in the presence of key officials, including Energy Secretary Saiful Islam, Petrobangla Chairman Ehsanul Haque, Joint Secretary Amir Hossain Chowdhury, and Eastern Refinery Managing Director Sharif Hasnat.