The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered volatility in Bangladesh’s fuel market, leading to supply chain uncertainties and a surge in ‘panic buying’ at filling stations across the country.

According to the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), while the average daily fuel sale typically stands at 1,137 tonnes, it has climbed to 1,222 tonnes in March. Despite the rush, the Energy Division confirmed that as of April 1, the country holds a stock of 9,021 tonnes of octane. Relief is expected soon as a vessel carrying 25,000 tonnes of octane from Singapore is scheduled to arrive tomorrow (April 6), with several other tankers already in the pipeline.

In a significant move to conserve energy, the government has announced new operating hours for offices, banks and shopping malls. Under the new directive, offices will operate until 4:00 PM, while bank transactions will conclude at 3:00 PM. Shopping malls and markets, previously restricted to 6:00 PM, are now permitted to remain open until 7:00 PM until further notice.

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Anindya Islam Amit, stated at the Secretariat today (Sunday, April 5) that the government is working to ensure a three-month fuel reserve and is exploring new sources for procurement. He also mentioned that Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to ensure an uninterrupted supply of diesel for farmers during the April peak season.

The energy crisis may also impact the education sector. Education Minister A.N.M. Ehsanul Haq Milan noted that a final decision on whether educational institutions will transition to online or remain offline will be made within this week.

On a positive note, a tanker named ‘Shan Gang Fa Jian’ carrying over 34,000 tonnes of diesel docked at Chittagong Port today. Port Authority Secretary Syed Refayet Hamim confirmed that the vessel berthed at Dolphin Jetty No. 6 in Patenga around 1:00 PM on Sunday.