DHAKA, March 7, (V7N) - Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku on Saturday reassured citizens that Bangladesh has sufficient fuel reserves and urged people not to panic or hoard petroleum products.

“There is no chance of a fuel shortage but since a war is ongoing, we have to plan and manage carefully and maintain austerity,” the minister said while briefing reporters after an hour-long meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in Tejgaon.

He confirmed that two additional fuel-carrying ships are scheduled to arrive at the country’s ports on March 9, ensuring uninterrupted supply.

The minister said a rationing system was introduced as a precautionary measure amid global uncertainty, but clarified that this has led some citizens to stockpile fuel unnecessarily. “Fearing rationing, some people have even started storing fuel in advance,” he noted.

Mahmud stressed that fuel prices will not be increased for the time being, adding: “We have taken all necessary steps to maintain supply. People should buy fuel only as needed.”

He explained that petrol stations receive fixed allocations, which may cause temporary shortages if sold quickly, but restocking occurs with the next supply.

To ensure smooth distribution, the minister announced that mobile courts will begin operations from Sunday at petrol pumps to prevent irregularities.

He also highlighted that the government is exploring alternative energy sources beyond Qatar and working to secure additional supplies from other countries if required.

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit, Division Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam, and PMO Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon were present during the briefing.

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