The operations of private inland container depots (ICDs), which manage the majority of Bangladesh’s export cargo, are at risk due to a halt in diesel supply from state-owned fuel distributors.
According to the Bangladesh Inland Container Depots Association (BICDA), 21 private depots in Chattogram handle nearly all export shipments and approximately 25 per cent of imports, playing a critical role in supporting the Chattogram Port Authority. Any disruption at these facilities could significantly affect the country’s trade flow.
Every day, thousands of export containers pass through these depots before leaving the country, while the depots also transport a large share of incoming import containers and reposition empty containers to reduce congestion at the port.
Much of this activity relies on diesel-powered machinery, including reach stackers, forklifts, top loaders, side lifters and container trailers.
Collectively, the depots require around 60,000-65,000 litres of diesel daily to operate efficiently.
However, BICDA officials allege that Padma Oil Company Limited, Meghna Petroleum Limited and Jamuna Oil Company Limited have recently curtailed diesel deliveries, citing shortages.
“If this situation persists, ICD operations could grind to a halt, directly impacting both imports and exports, and threatening port operations,” said BICDA Secretary General Ruhul Amin Sikder.
BICDA President Khalilur Rahman has formally urged the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) to direct the fuel companies to restore diesel supply in line with daily requirements.
Meghna Petroleum Limited Managing Director Shahirul Hassan confirmed that deliveries have been suspended for the past two days due to regulatory requirements and said the matter is under review.
“We expect fuel supply to resume shortly once the authorities complete their assessment,” he added.
