As the fuel crisis in Bangladesh intensifies, concerns over market stability have risen due to transport disruptions, enforcement actions, and irregularities in supply and distribution. The crisis was exacerbated by an indefinite strike by tanker workers in eight northern districts, leading to a halt in fuel supply from a key depot. Reports indicate that operations at the Parbatipur Railway Head Oil Depot, a major supply point, have been suspended with no diesel, petrol, or octane being lifted.
The strike was initiated by the Rangpur Divisional Tanker Workers Union following the arrest and sentencing of three individuals in Nilphamari over fuel theft allegations. The union demanded the release of the detained workers and the removal of the Nilphamari Nezarat deputy collector. They have warned that the strike will persist until their demands are met, potentially causing a complete standstill in passenger and goods transport.
In response to the crisis, the Border Guard Bangladesh in the Rajshahi district has increased monitoring of oil depots and filling stations to combat hoarding and smuggling. The government has announced a cash reward for credible information on illegal fuel hoarding and smuggling, aiming to address malpractices in the fuel supply chain. This initiative, led by the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources, is part of broader efforts to ensure fair and consistent fuel distribution across the country.
