Dhaka, Apr 15, (V7N) - Joint Secretary of the Energy Department, Monir Hossain Chowdhury, has assured the public that Bangladesh will face no fuel shortages over the next two months. Speaking at a press briefing at the Secretariat on Wednesday afternoon, he provided a detailed breakdown of current reserves, noting that the country holds a stock of 1,01,385 metric tons of diesel, 31,821 metric tons of octane, 18,211 metric tons of petrol, and 77,546 metric tons of jet fuel.

Addressing concerns regarding price fluctuations, the spokesperson noted that fuel prices are adjusted monthly, as seen in the recent April update. He clarified that the pricing for next month will be determined based on the prevailing global and local situation at that time, maintaining the government's current policy of regular price rationalization.

The official also addressed reports of long queues and crowding at petrol pumps, identifying the issue as being largely localized to Dhaka rather than a nationwide problem. He urged citizens to avoid panic buying, emphasizing that the volume of oil currently supplied to filling stations matches the levels provided during the same period last year, and that no reduction in supply has occurred.

Regarding industrial operations, the Energy Department confirmed that there is no shortage of diesel for factories and that fuel is being supplied according to demand lists without any obstacles. To further ensure energy security, the government has already granted approval for the private sector to import 1.4 million metric tons of fuel.

While admitting that the government was unable to import crude oil during March and April, Monir Hossain Chowdhury announced that crude oil shipments from Saudi Arabia are expected to arrive via an alternative route by late April or early May. He also highlighted the role of the Eastern Refinery, which refines 1.5 million metric tons of fuel annually, accounting for one-fifth of the total national demand.

END/SMA/AJ