Naogaon has taken a significant step towards modernising fuel distribution by introducing mobile app-based petrol and diesel sales, following the earlier fuel card system. On Sunday afternoon, the scheme was launched at 11 pilot petrol stations in Sadar Upazila, marking the first phase of this technology-driven initiative. While the new system is intended to enhance transparency, several customers report ongoing inconveniences.
How the App-Based System Works
According to the district administration, all customers must now use the fuel app to obtain petrol or diesel. Key details such as the fuel amount, vehicle mileage, and license number are recorded in the app during each transaction. For motorcycles, the regulations are as follows:
| Vehicle Type | Fuel Allocation per Transaction | Condition for Next Refuel |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | 500 BDT | After driving 125 km |
| Car | Variable, per vehicle type | After specified mileage |
If a vehicle owner attempts to refuel before completing the required mileage at another station, the app will flag the attempt. The initiative, initially a pilot project, will gradually expand to all petrol stations across the district.
Local Reactions
Field observations at Sakib Filling Station near Muktir More at 11 am revealed long queues of motorcycles awaiting fuel. Riders expressed frustration at the additional time required to enter information into the app, on top of already lengthy waits.
Despite these challenges, some residents have welcomed the change. Many believe the app will curb fuel hoarding and misuse, ensuring a fairer distribution system.
Motorcyclist Yunus Mondal said, “Previously, some riders took fuel repeatedly despite already having supplies. Now, the app prevents anyone from refueling before completing the required mileage. We urge the administration to keep this system operational.”
Another customer, Masud Rana, added, “Standing under the scorching sun is tiring, and entering details into the app adds further delay. The administration should explore ways to make the process faster and more efficient.”
Implementation and Oversight
Sakib Filling Station manager Al Amin confirmed, “Following directives from the district administration, we have been selling fuel via the app since morning. This prevents multiple refuels by the same vehicle and streamlines operations. We received proper training from the authorities to manage the app.”
Naogaon Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Ibnul Abedin stated, “From today, all filling stations in Sadar Upazila are dispensing fuel through the app. Any attempt to hoard fuel without completing the required mileage will be detected. Each station has a designated monitoring officer, and we plan to gradually extend the system to every petrol station in the district.”
The app-based fuel distribution system represents a significant step towards transparency and efficient resource management, though authorities are urged to address operational delays to ensure customer convenience.