The Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association has expressed concern that petrol pumps nationwide could close at any moment due to fuel shortages and lack of security.
In a press release issued on Sunday night, the organization stated that the situation of petrol pumps across the country is gradually becoming critical.
According to the organization, the amount of fuel being supplied daily by oil companies is insufficient to meet customer demand.
As a result, long queues of motorcycle riders are forming at pumps, with people having to wait for hours.
Pump employees are facing physical and mental stress due to the continuous workload, and the lack of adequate supply is making the situation more complex.
The organization also alleged that insufficient security during fuel sales is increasing disorder at the pumps.
It further claimed that the Bangladesh government and local administration are effectively ignoring the issue.
There are also allegations that many motorcyclists are purchasing fuel multiple times a day and later selling it at higher prices.
This is depriving genuine customers and quickly depleting available stock.
According to the organization, in some areas there have been incidents of organized groups attacking pumps late at night and forcibly taking fuel.
In one such incident, individuals reportedly entered a pump with sticks and looted fuel, which was described as “plundering.”
There are also concerns that fuel tankers may be looted during transportation from depots, putting the entire supply chain at risk.
The organization noted that on the day before Eid, many pumps were unable to reserve even the minimum amount of fuel for ambulances.
In this situation, they warned that if the presence of law enforcement is not ensured quickly, they may stop lifting (collecting) fuel altogether.
