Bangladesh has warned of possible short-term disruptions to domestic fuel supplies as ongoing instability in the Middle East unsettles global energy markets.
An emergency review meeting, chaired by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, assessed the evolving situation and the country’s preparedness.
Officials said uncertainty has arisen over securing the required volume of fuel from international suppliers on schedule.
Authorities cautioned that temporary adjustments to domestic fuel distribution may be needed to align supply with demand. This could result in a modest reduction in electricity generation and fertiliser production, the meeting noted.
However, the government stressed that it is taking maximum precautions to prevent public hardship during the holy month of Ramadan. A series of directives has been issued.
The ministry has called for public cooperation and urged consumers to use electricity and fuel more efficiently. Decorative lighting has been discouraged nationwide, while citizens have been asked to limit private vehicle use and shift to public transport where possible.
Law enforcement agencies and traders have been instructed to prevent the open-market sale of diesel and petrol. District administrations, police and Border Guard Bangladesh have also been directed to strengthen efforts to curb fuel smuggling.
Officials said the ministry has taken all possible measures to minimise the impact of global market volatility. Efforts are under way to secure fuel from multiple sources to maintain normal procurement flows.
The government appealed for public patience and cooperation to ensure the effectiveness of its contingency measures.
The meeting was attended by State Minister Anindya Islam Amit, the secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, and the chairmen of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation and Bangladesh Power Development Board, among other officials.