Fuel Stocks to Rise as Supply Ships Arrive Rationing to Persist: Energy Minister

Fuel reserves in Bangladesh are set to increase following the arrival of two tankers, but rationing measures will remain in effect, confirmed Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the Uttaranchal Chhatra Forum at the National Press Club on Sunday, March 8, the minister addressed the visible queues at petrol pumps. He attributed the supply pressure to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, noting that attacks on refineries have disrupted global stability.

"A ship anchored at 11:00 AM today, and another is expected by noon," the minister stated. "While these arrivals will bolster our stocks, we must continue rationing as the duration of the war remains uncertain."

The minister highlighted that the government inherited a fragile energy sector burdened by debt, further complicated by the sudden outbreak of war. Despite these challenges, he dismissed rumors of an immediate price hike.

"The opposition is spreading panic regarding price increases, but I assure the public that we have no such plans for now," Tuku said. "There is no need for panic-buying or private stockpiling. We have no crisis, but we must use our resources economically."