The government of Bangladesh will continue to use subsidies and tighter oversight to manage pressure in the fuel market, a senior adviser said on Tuesday, as authorities seek to contain the impact of supply constraints.
Zahed Ur Rahman, adviser to the Prime Minister on information and broadcasting, said that while there is a “slight shortage” in fuel supplies, the situation remains under control.
“Operations have been intensified to prevent illegal hoarding and smuggling of fuel,” he told a press briefing at the Secretariat in Dhaka.
The remarks come amid broader efforts by the government to stabilise essential markets and maintain economic momentum despite ongoing challenges.
Rahman said a new “Krishak (Farmer) Card” scheme is in its final stages, with a planned launch on Pohela Boishakh by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The programme carries an allocation of Tk 1,150 crore under the Annual Development Programme and is aimed at strengthening support for the agriculture sector.
He also pointed to progress in water management, noting that canal excavation has begun in 54 districts under the Ministry of Water Resources, a move expected to support irrigation and boost farm output.
On market regulation, the adviser said authorities were able to maintain relative price stability during Ramadan through enforcement drives led by the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection.
These efforts resulted in more than 1,600 cases and fines totaling Tk 2.64 crore, while subsidised sales of essential goods were expanded through truck-based distribution.
In the health sector, Rahman flagged concerns over a recent outbreak of Measles, adding that targeted vaccination campaigns are already under way in 18 upazilas.
A nationwide immunisation drive is scheduled to begin on May 3 and run until May 21. He acknowledged that earlier gaps in vaccination coverage had contributed to the current situation.
Authorities are also stepping up enforcement and regulatory measures across other sectors. The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched eviction drives to clear illegally occupied footpaths, while plans are in place to introduce digital registration for all water vessels.
Environmental initiatives include the production of 15 million saplings and the recovery of nearly 198 acres of forest land for reforestation.
In parallel, the government is preparing a nationwide youth talent hunt programme, set to begin on April 30, alongside financial support for 129 athletes who have won medals internationally.
On expatriate welfare, Rahman said the bodies of Bangladeshis killed in conflicts in the Middle East have been repatriated, with their families receiving Tk 3 lakh in assistance and Tk 10 lakh in insurance coverage.
Transport reforms are also under consideration, including the introduction of GPS tracking in public vehicles, the removal of unauthorised bus counters, and enhanced security at ferry terminals.
“The government is working in a coordinated manner across sectors,” Rahman said. “Despite limitations, we remain committed to improving people’s quality of life.”