Dhaka: The government has implemented a series of strategic measures to ensure a steady and uninterrupted energy supply across the nation, effectively shielding the sector from global uncertainties and averting any potential fuel crises. To mitigate risks associated with potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, fuel imports are being channeled through alternative routes and suppliers. This approach, coupled with robust government oversight, adequate stock levels, and diversified import channels, has successfully eliminated concerns over fuel shortages.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, as of last Thursday, the nation maintained a total of 255,018 tonnes of fuel oil in stock. Diesel constituted the largest portion with 122,660 tonnes, accounting for approximately 63 percent of total consumption. Sufficient stocks of octane, petrol, and jet fuel further bolster the country’s energy reserves.
The Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC) has confirmed the loading of 100,000 tonnes of crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu Commercial Port on April 20. Additionally, another 100,000 tonnes aboard the vessel “MT Nordic Pollux” is presently in the Strait of Hormuz, with both shipments projected to reach Chattogram Port by the first week of May. As part of alternative supply arrangements, diesel imports via the Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline have been increased.
On April 1, 7,000 tonnes of diesel were transported from the Numaligarh Refinery in Assam to the Parbatipur depot in Dinajpur. Prior shipments on March 11 and March 23 totaled 10,000 tonnes, resulting in a cumulative pipeline import of 17,000 tonnes across three consignments. Additionally, the vessel “PVT Solana” delivered 27,300 tonnes of refined diesel from Malaysia to Chattogram Port on April 1, under the supervision of the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC).
Further augmenting the supply, two vessels from Singapore, “Yuan Jing He” and “Central Star,” are scheduled to arrive in early April with 30,000 tonnes of diesel and 25,000 tonnes of octane, respectively. The government remains committed to securing fuel through both government-to-government agreements with state-owned companies abroad and international tender processes.
To thwart artificial shortages, authorities are intensifying efforts against illegal stockpiling. This includes deploying tag officers at petrol pumps, conducting mobile court drives, forming vigilance teams, deploying Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel at depots, and offering rewards for information on hoarding activities. Between March 3 and April 1, authorities recovered 372,388 litres of illegally stored fuel, predominantly diesel, according to Energy Division sources.
Despite global pressures, domestic fuel prices have remained unchanged, offering relief to consumers. According to a gazette issued on March 31, diesel is priced at Tk 100 per litre, kerosene at Tk 112, octane at Tk 120, and petrol at Tk 116. Monir Hossain Chowdhury, Joint Secretary (Spokesperson) of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, stated that the government initially focused on importing fuel primarily from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. However, in the current global context, efforts are underway to explore new sources and procure oil from locations where it is available at reasonable prices.
Chowdhury emphasized that there is no fuel shortage in the country and encouraged consumers to purchase fuel as needed while advocating for its efficient use.