Fuel Panic in Phulbari: Hoarding and Open Market Exploitation Reported

A fuel oil crisis is gripping Phulbari and neighboring upazilas in Dinajpur, fueled by rumors and panic buying. Unscrupulous individuals are reportedly exploiting the situation by repeatedly queuing for oil to resell at inflated prices on the open market.

Recent reports indicate a chaotic environment at local petrol pumps. Sources claim some residents are using the same vehicles to wait in line multiple times or visiting several stations in a single day to stockpile fuel. This "extra" oil is later funneled into village markets and sold at a significant markup.

The frenzy is being stoked by open-market sellers spreading false claims of an impending national fuel shortage. This has triggered panic among the public, leading many to store fuel at home—a practice that experts warn is creating an artificial crisis.

"During normal periods, we sell 700 to 900 liters a day," said Nazrul Islam, Manager of Islam Filling Station in Phulbari. "Now, we are seeing sales hit 3,000 liters in just five hours. Other pumps are experiencing the same surge."

The local administration has stepped in to curb the volatility. Dinajpur Deputy Commissioner Md. Rafiqul Islam confirmed that mobile courts are now conducting drives against hoarders and those spreading misinformation. He emphasized that the administration is strictly monitoring stations to prevent unnecessary bulk collections.

Local observers warn that unless market supervision remains tight and rumors are debunked, the artificial supply strain could worsen.