FUEL PUMPS MAY SHUT NATIONWIDE IN BANGLADESH AMID SECURITY FEARS

DHAKA, March 23 (Bernama-UNB) -- 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, United News of Bangladesh (UNB) reported.

The Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners 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.

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

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.

-- BERNAMA-UNB