Fuel shortage leaves Chattogram trawlers idle, fishermen without work

The ongoing crisis of diesel has left hundreds of fishing trawlers idle in Chattogram, disrupting operations during the peak season and leaving thousands of fishermen without work.

Fishing boat owners and fishermen said fuel shortages have kept many trawlers from going to sea, with a growing number of vessels now lying idle at jetties along the Karnaphuli River and at Fishery Ghat.

Trawler owners said that while some vessels are still going to sea, uncertainty remains over whether they will be able to continue. Previously, trawlers could remain at sea for 25-28 days, but current fuel availability allows only 10-12 days, making it difficult to recover costs.

They said a trawler typically requires between 1,000 and 2,000 litres of diesel, rising to 3,500-4,000 litres for larger vessels. However, due to shortages, many owners are choosing not to send boats out.

Nur Hossain, president of the Chattogram Marine Fishing Boat Owners Association, said there is a shortage of fuel, although some fishermen are managing to obtain it at higher prices.

Fishermen said their income has been severely affected. Many depend on daily earnings and are struggling to support their families, especially those with loan repayments. One fisherman said that shorter fishing trips are resulting in losses instead of profits.

The situation has become more difficult as a 58-day fishing ban is set to begin in mid-April. With fishing already restricted for about 148 days annually, fishermen said the current disruption threatens their livelihoods during the limited working period.

Fisherman Rahim Miah, said, "On one hand, we cannot go to sea because of fuel, and on the other hand, the ban is ahead – how will we survive with our families?"

Meanwhile, fuel dealers and filling station owners said supply has dropped sharply, with daily deliveries falling to around 40,000 litres against a demand of roughly 100,000 litres.

They said the shortfall is linked to reduced supply from state-owned companies – Padma Oil, Meghna Petroleum and Jamuna Oil – and that fuel is often unavailable even after advance payment.

Fuel prices have also risen above government-fixed rates, despite limited availability, some complained.

Amid the situation, the government maintains that there is no fuel shortage, while local officials said some traders are creating artificial scarcity through illegal hoarding.

The Chattogram district administration has carried out raids in response. In one operation, around 25,000 litres of illegal diesel were seized. A total of 98 drives have been conducted so far, resulting in fines and legal action.

Officials said strict measures will be taken against those involved in creating artificial shortages. They added that fuel imports are continuing and sufficient stock is available.

Department of Fisheries officials in Chattogram said the shortage is affecting multiple sectors, including their own operations.

They added that government support programmes, including food assistance, will continue for fishermen during the ban period.