Dhaka, Apr 18 (V7N) — A severe fuel shortage across the country has led to significant public suffering, with motorists and motorcyclists forced to wait in long queues for hours at filling stations.

In many areas, drivers complain that even after waiting from early morning until late at night, they are unable to obtain the required fuel. The situation is particularly critical in Rangpur Division, where several filling stations have been temporarily shut down due to supply shortages. Diesel scarcity has also become increasingly evident.

Filling station owners say the crisis cannot be resolved quickly unless regular fuel supply from depots is restored. However, in some areas, limited relief has come through the introduction of fuel card systems, allowing controlled distribution.

In Chandpur, several stations — including Faisal Petrol Pump — have reportedly stopped supplying fuel since the previous night due to shortages.

Pump authorities claim that supply levels remain unchanged compared to previous periods, but demand has surged significantly due to the growing number of vehicles. As a result, many stations are able to operate only four days a week, remaining closed for the rest due to insufficient stock.

A similar situation prevails in Dhaka, where long queues of vehicles have been seen at filling stations since early morning. Drivers report waiting times ranging from 8 hours to as long as 12 to 13 hours.

One driver said he had been waiting since 1:30 am, enduring extreme hardship. “I have to eat, rest, and manage everything while standing in line,” he said.

The heavy congestion at fuel stations is also causing traffic jams on nearby roads, adding to public inconvenience.

Affected citizens have called on the authorities to take immediate and effective steps to resolve the crisis and ensure transparency regarding fuel supply, including clear information on availability, timing, and distribution.

END/SMA/AJ