Fuel pumps may shut nationwide amid security fears, supply crunch: Owners

Petrol pump owners in Bangladesh have warned that fuel stations across the country may shut down due to mounting security concerns and an ongoing fuel supply shortage.

The warning came in a late-night press release issued yesterday (22 March) by the Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association.

The association said petrol pumps nationwide are facing a 'critical situation' as the daily fuel allocation from companies is insufficient to meet growing consumer demand.

As a result, motorcyclists are being forced to wait in long queues for hours to refuel. 

Pump workers are also coming under severe physical and mental strain due to continuous workloads, the association said, adding that the situation could lead to a complete shutdown of fuel stations if adequate supply is not ensured.

The organisation further alleged that the issue of security in fuel marketing has been largely overlooked by the government and local administration, leading to increasing disorder at pump stations.

Citing recent incidents, the association said that despite having around 10,500 litres of petrol and an equal amount of octane at one pump ahead of Eid, and about 8,000 litres at another, the stock was depleted within a short period due to excessive pressure and chaotic situations.

Describing the situation as a form of "looting," the association claimed that some individuals are purchasing fuel multiple times a day and reselling it at higher prices. 

In some cases, motorcyclists were reportedly refuelling up to 10 times daily while others repeatedly returned with partially filled tanks, depriving genuine customers.

The association also alleged that organised groups have been forcibly opening pumps at night and taking fuel. 

Referring to an incident in Thakurgaon, it said miscreants armed with sticks looted fuel during supply operations.

The association noted that along with the fuel shortage, security risks have intensified, including threats of tanker looting during transportation from depots.

It warned that unless adequate security is ensured immediately, pump owners may be compelled to suspend fuel lifting from depots and ultimately shut down operations.

The association also said that on the night before Eid, many pumps were unable to reserve even 200 litres of octane for emergency services like ambulances, as fuel was forcibly taken after pumps were opened under pressure.

"Without a strong presence of law enforcement agencies at petrol pumps, there will be no option but to halt fuel collection from depots," the release added.