Bangladesh To Ensure Three Months’ Fuel Stockpile: State Minister

DHAKA, April 5 (Bernama-UNB) -- Bangladesh is working to ensure a three-month stockpile of all types of fuel amid the global energy crisis, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit said on Sunday.

“We have identified new sources and signed agreements with several suppliers. If implemented, we are ready to procure fuel for the next three months,” he said while speaking to reporters at the Secretariat, United News of Bangladesh (UNB) reported.

He said Bangladesh has already made preparations to secure fuel supplies, particularly diesel, from alternative sources after some international suppliers declared force majeure due to the global situation.

The government has already ensured three months’ supply of petrol and octane, while preparations are complete to meet April’s diesel demand, he added.

Most of the country’s fuel demand is being met without disruption, the state minister said.

“Currently, long queues at filling stations are seen mainly for octane and diesel. Octane accounts for about 6 per cent of total demand and petrol another 6 per cent — meaning 12 per cent in total. The remaining 88 per cent of demand is being met normally,” he said.

He said if everyone uses fuel according to their actual needs, there will be no long queues at filling stations.

However, he acknowledged that some irregularities have been reported in certain areas and the government is taking action to address them.

The government has held virtual meetings with deputy commissioners of all 64 districts to ensure coordinated efforts in fuel distribution, the state minister said.

“If there are any shortcomings on the part of BPC or its subsidiaries — Padma, Meghna and Jamuna — steps are being taken to correct them and make the supply system smoother so that public suffering is reduced and people act responsibly,” he said.

The minister said the government is also focusing on increasing fuel storage capacity.

“This type of crisis could be prolonged. Even after the war ends, its effects may linger for some time. That is why we are planning a three-month fuel reserve. In the case of diesel, a major issue is storage capacity.

“Bringing fuel is not enough; we must also expand storage facilities. Unused storage capacities of government organisations like BADC and Bangladesh Railway, as well as private sector power plants, may be utilised if needed,” said the minister.

-- BERNAMA-UNB