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Published : 24 Mar 2026, 12:50 AM
Power Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku has called for calm as global energy prices fluctuate, noting that the government is currently supplying 25 percent more fuel than at this time last year.
Speaking to reporters at his residence on Monday, he urged citizens to avoid overfilling tanks and to resist panic-buying that could disrupt the steady flow of fuel.
"I appeal to the people on behalf of the government: do not panic and do not purchase more fuel than you strictly need," Tuku said.
He noted that despite global volatility, the government is currently supplying 25 percent more fuel than it did at this time last year.
The minister also assured the people that the government is maintaining a continuous supply chain.
Depots returned to operations after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays on Monday.
"The oil is arriving and will be available at all petrol pumps. There is no need for long queues," he added.
The minister also clarified that fuel stocks are dynamic.
"Stock doesn't just sit there, it comes and goes. Because we are maintaining a steady flow of imports, we have been able to manage the situation so far," he said.
Tuku highlighted that the current crisis is not unique to Bangladesh but is a global phenomenon, triggered by the Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
The government is buying fuel at high prices from the spot market and taking steps to avoid increasing energy prices, unlike many other countries, Tuku said.
The government’s call for calm comes as "panic-buying" and hoarding have complicated the market over the last two weeks.
On Mar 8, the Power Division requested deployment of mobile courts to prevent unscrupulous traders from creating an artificial crisis.
The government had briefly imposed limits on the sale of petrol, octane, and diesel on Mar 6, but those restrictions were later lifted to accommodate the Eid holiday rush and the ongoing irrigation season.
