Bangladesh has sufficient fuel reserves and there is no immediate gasoline shortage in the country, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said on Sunday, while explaining that the government has introduced fuel rationing as a precautionary measure due to uncertainty in global energy markets.
Speaking at a discussion held at the National Press Club in Dhaka, the minister said the decision was taken in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has raised concerns about disruptions in global oil supply routes.
“There is no fuel crisis in Bangladesh. However, considering the global situation, the government has introduced rationing to ensure fuel is used efficiently and reserves last longer,” Iqbal Hassan Mahmood said.
The minister noted that the Middle East conflict has created instability in the international energy market, and Bangladesh must remain cautious because a large portion of its petroleum imports originate from the region.
“If war affects the countries from which Bangladesh imports petroleum, the supply system could face disruption. For that reason, the government has adopted a cautious approach by managing fuel through rationing,” he said.
According to the minister, the country currently maintains adequate reserves of petroleum products, but authorities are planning ahead given the uncertainty over how long the geopolitical tensions may continue.
“We have fuel oil reserves. However, we do not know how long the conflict will last. By introducing rationing instead of consuming fuel rapidly, the country will be able to use its reserves for a longer period,” he added.
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood also confirmed that several oil tankers carrying fuel have begun arriving in Bangladesh, which will further strengthen the country’s supply position.
One tanker anchored near Bangladesh on Sunday morning, and another vessel is expected to arrive shortly. Once unloading operations begin, national fuel stocks are expected to increase further.
The minister acknowledged that long queues have been seen at petrol pumps in some areas as consumers respond to global developments. However, he urged the public not to panic or hoard fuel.
“There is no need to stockpile oil. The government currently has no plan to increase fuel prices,” he said.
The minister also addressed electricity supply during the ongoing Ramadan period, saying the government has issued special instructions to ensure that there is no load shedding during Iftar, Tarawih and Sehri.
He added that the government, which assumed office recently, is working to stabilise the country’s financial and energy sectors despite inheriting economic challenges.
Iqbal Hassan Mahmood emphasised that public cooperation will be essential in managing the energy situation.
“No government can function effectively without public cooperation. We urge citizens to use energy responsibly and avoid spreading or believing rumours,” he said.
The event was attended by several political leaders and government officials, including Amirul Islam Alim, member of parliament; Atiqur Rahman Rumon, additional press secretary to the prime minister; and Zahidul Islam Roni, deputy press secretary.
Officials say Bangladesh will continue to closely monitor global energy developments while taking precautionary steps to maintain stable fuel supply and electricity generation.
