Bangladesh’s State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, has attributed the recent fuel shortage to a sudden increase in demand rather than any disruption in supply.
Speaking at the Secretariat on Tuesday, the first working day after the Eid holidays, Tuku said a gap had emerged between demand and supply as consumption rose unexpectedly.
He explained that fuel distribution had continued at its usual rate, but demand had surged, creating pressure on the system. According to him, such a situation was a natural outcome when consumption outpaces supply.
Questioning the severity of the situation, Tuku noted that there had been no widespread disruption during the Eid travel period. He pointed out that vehicles, including buses, had continued operating without interruption, suggesting that the shortage had not significantly affected transport services.
He urged the public not to engage in unnecessary stockpiling, saying there was no justification for panic-driven behaviour.
The minister also emphasised that Bangladesh relies on imported fuel and that global market instability has contributed to the situation. He called on consumers to adopt a more cautious and efficient approach to energy use.
Addressing concerns about fuel prices, Tuku clarified that pricing decisions are not handled by the ministry but by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission. He added that no decision had yet been taken to increase fuel prices.
The remarks come amid growing public concern over fuel availability, as authorities seek to reassure consumers and maintain stability in the energy market.
