Rajshahi is facing a severe petrol shortage as the ongoing global conflict continues to disrupt energy supplies. Since Monday morning, the majority of petrol stations in the city have ceased operations, leaving residents, commuters, and transport operators in mounting distress. The Petrol Pump Owners Association has called for the deployment of military personnel to maintain order at fuel outlets and prevent potential chaos.
Anisur Rahman Shimul, General Secretary of the Rajshahi District Petrol Pump Owners Association, confirmed that reserves at local pumps were exhausted by Sunday. “From today, no petrol or octane is available at any station,” he stated. Motorcycle riders, in particular, have been crowding the pumps, heightening tensions.
Shimul explained that while notices have been posted at several stations, limited supplies are expected from the Baghbari depot. “Our lorry, which has a capacity of 13,500 litres, could only collect 3,000 litres,” he said. “We have instructed suppliers to deliver adequate fuel. If deliveries arrive overnight, sales may resume on Tuesday.”
He warned that once fuel sales begin, disorder could ensue. “Police alone cannot manage the crowds. We have requested the Deputy Commissioner to deploy the army at petrol stations. Without military support, resuming sales will be impossible,” Shimul added.
Citywide observations revealed long queues at pumps in Saheb Bazar, Sagarpara, Shiroil, the Court area, and Talaimari. Despite waiting for hours, many motorists—including motorcycles, private cars, and public transport vehicles—were unable to obtain fuel. Limited sales at a few stations barely meet demand.
Motorcyclist Robiul Islam, travelling from Baneshwar in Puthia, said, “I have been standing in line since morning but still haven’t received fuel. Our work is coming to a halt. If this continues, our livelihoods will be affected. Immediate restoration of fuel supplies is essential.” Similarly, Sakawat Hossain from Poba remarked, “I went from one station to another searching for petrol, but my tank ran dry before I could fill it. Now there is no way to get home.”
The shortage has forced some vehicles to stop by the roadside, causing traffic congestion on key city routes. Commuters and transport operators have voiced growing concern over the disruption to daily life and economic activity.
Rajshahi Petrol Shortage: Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Area | Rajshahi city, Bangladesh |
| Cause | Global conflict impacting fuel supply |
| Pump Status | Most closed since Monday morning |
| Depot Supply | Baghbari depot lorry received 3,000 of 13,500 litres capacity |
| Main Concerns | Public disorder, transport disruption, traffic congestion |
| Association Request | Deployment of army personnel to maintain order |
| Observed Impact | Long queues, frustrated motorists, roadside vehicle halts |
| Expected Resolution | Fuel delivery anticipated; limited sales may resume Tuesday |
The crisis underscores the fragility of urban fuel supply chains in the face of international disruptions. Authorities and the pump owners’ association are emphasising careful coordination and orderly distribution to prevent unrest and ensure essential transportation services can resume efficiently.