Khulna is experiencing a persistent fuel shortage as supply from depots remains insufficient to meet growing demand, leaving many filling stations struggling to continue operations.
The shortage has caused difficulties for pump owners, transport workers and ordinary consumers across the city and surrounding areas.
A visit to several filling stations on Monday revealed that many pumps are operating with limited fuel stocks. While a few stations are selling fuel in restricted quantities, others have temporarily halted sales after running out of supply.
Pump operators say the crisis is mainly due to irregular deliveries from the Khulna fuel depot.
“We rarely receive the amount of fuel we request each day, which makes it impossible to meet customer demand,” said Latif, an employee at Biswas Filling Station.
Although the government has officially withdrawn the rationing system, pump owners say they are still forced to impose limits because of the shortage.
According to Latif, motorcycles are currently being given fuel worth only Tk250 per purchase.
At KCC Filling Station, a notice stating “no fuel after noon” has been placed at the entrance. Staff members said the limited supply they receive is usually sold out by early afternoon, forcing them to stop sales for the rest of the day.
Transport workers say the situation is affecting daily operations, as drivers often have to visit several pumps before finding fuel. This not only wastes time but also disrupts the movement of goods and passengers.
Motorcycle rider Asad said he frequently has to visit two or three filling stations just to buy Tk500 worth of fuel.
“Even though rationing has officially ended, the real situation is different. Sometimes, even after visiting multiple pumps, there is no fuel available,” he said.
Pump owners have warned that the situation could worsen unless regular and adequate fuel supplies are ensured to meet demand.
