Dhaka’s gas supply crisis has intensified, with falling pressure reported across several parts of the capital, disrupting transport, fuel stations and household activities. The shortage became particularly acute on Thursday, 13 August, as many consumers experienced inadequate or no gas supply for extended periods.
The disruption has been especially visible at CNG filling stations. At several stations across the capital, gas pressure was reportedly too low to maintain normal refuelling operations. Some stations displayed notices indicating that gas was unavailable, while others continued to serve customers only in limited quantities. Drivers who managed to obtain fuel often had to wait for prolonged periods.
CNG-powered auto-rickshaws, private cars and public transport vehicles were among those affected. Many drivers reportedly began queuing at filling stations early in the morning, only to spend hours waiting for a relatively small amount of fuel. In some cases, drivers were able to purchase gas worth only around Tk20 to Tk50 after a lengthy wait.
The situation has created additional pressure on already busy roads. Long queues outside filling stations have occupied road space, while vehicles waiting for refuelling have contributed to slower traffic movement in surrounding areas. For commercial drivers, the disruption also represents a direct loss of working time, as hours spent waiting for fuel reduce the time available for carrying passengers and earning income.
The impact has also extended into residential neighbourhoods. Residents in several areas said gas pressure remained too weak for normal cooking, despite flames being visible on some household burners. Others reported periods when no gas was available at all.
The problem has been particularly disruptive during peak cooking periods in the morning and evening. Families dependent entirely on piped gas have struggled to prepare meals according to their normal schedules, forcing some households to consider alternative cooking arrangements.
A prolonged supply disruption could have wider consequences for the capital’s daily economy. If transport operators are unable to refuel efficiently, the availability of CNG-powered vehicles may decline, potentially affecting passenger movement and increasing pressure on other forms of transport. For households, continued uncertainty over gas pressure can interfere with cooking, work and other routine activities.
Residents have also expressed frustration over the unpredictability of the supply. Rather than simply facing a temporary reduction in pressure, many households are finding it difficult to anticipate when gas will be available at an adequate level. This uncertainty makes it harder to organise cooking and other domestic activities.
The latest disruption has therefore highlighted how closely Dhaka’s everyday life remains tied to a stable gas distribution network. Transport operators, CNG station workers and residential consumers are all affected when supply falls below normal levels.
Consumers are calling for the authorities and relevant gas distribution agencies to restore normal pressure as quickly as possible. Unless supply conditions improve, the effects of the shortage could spread further across transport and household activities, increasing inconvenience for residents already facing lengthy waits and disrupted daily routines.
