Dhaka: Inadequate fuel storage capacity and irregular shipment schedules caused by global conflicts have been identified as the primary drivers behind the recent energy crisis in Bangladesh.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources shared these findings on Sunday during a meeting with a special parliamentary committee formed to address the country’s ongoing energy situation. The committee, however, expressed satisfaction with the emergency measures taken by the ministry to stabilize the sector. The meeting was held at the Parliament with the committee’s chairman, Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, in the chair.
Sources within the committee revealed that the ministry presented a detailed report on the fuel sector’s current status. The ministry admitted that Bangladesh currently lacks the infrastructure required to maintain a buffer stock large enough to withstand several months of supply disruptions. While the fuel import process was intended to be seamless, the ministry explained that global geopolitical tensions and conflicts have caused fuel-carrying vessels to arrive irregularly.
This unpredictability led to a depletion of existing reserves, triggering public panic. The ministry noted that once panic spread, the sudden spike in demand made it nearly impossible to maintain a steady supply with the existing logistics. The special committee recommended that the ministry take immediate steps to ensure an uninterrupted import chain. Members also inquired about long-term plans to expand storage facilities to prevent similar “panic-buying” scenarios in the future.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, committee member Md. Abdul Baten stated that while the initial discussions were productive, the committee has sought a more comprehensive report based on specific queries raised by members. “We have provided several suggestions and asked tough questions. The ministry is expected to present a follow-up report in the next meeting,” Baten said. He added, “However, we are satisfied with the immediate steps taken to mitigate the current situation. We have been assured that there is no risk of an immediate fuel shortage now, and precautionary measures are in place for the coming months.”
The special committee includes State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit, Whip A.B.M. Ashraf Uddin (Nizan), Whip Miah Nuruddin Ahammed (Apu), Moinul Islam Khan, Md. Nurul Islam, Md. Abdul Baten, Md. Abul Hasnat (Hasnat Abdullah), and Mohammed Abul Hasan. A press release from the Parliament Secretariat confirmed that the committee plans to hold further meetings to finalize its recommendations before submitting a formal report to the House.