A severe fuel shortage in the capital, Dhaka, has led to long queues at petrol stations, causing significant hardship for ordinary citizens. Many people are being forced to wait for hours, yet still failing to obtain the fuel they need.
On Monday (April 2026), visits to different areas across the city revealed that long lines of cars and motorcycles began forming at fuel stations early in the morning. Many people have been unable to collect fuel even after visiting multiple pumps.
Shahidul Islam, a driver, said he visited five petrol pumps since dawn but could not get any fuel. Shahriar Rahman, a resident of Khilkhet, reported a similar experience after trying at three different stations.
Meanwhile, Abdullah Al Mamun, a private-sector employee, has been waiting in line since 5:00 AM. Even after eight hours, he was unable to secure fuel. “I am losing valuable time and cannot go to work, he said.
At a petrol station in Asadgate, more than 200 private cars and over 100 motorcycles were seen waiting in line by noon. A similar scene was observed in Bijoy Sarani, where hundreds of vehicles created long queues extending into nearby roads, worsening traffic congestion.
Pump officials stated that fuel supplies are insufficient compared to demand, causing stocks to run out quickly. At many stations, fuel had already run out the previous night, and there is uncertainty about when new supplies will arrive.
However, officials from the relevant ministry claim that there is no fuel shortage in the country and that supply remains normal. The reality on the ground, however, clearly contradicts these statements.
Experts suggest that poor supply chain management and a lack of proper planning may have contributed to the situation. Without immediate and effective measures, the crisis could worsen further.
The ongoing shortage is disrupting daily life, affecting workers, students, and those involved in the transport sector. Many people are unable to carry out essential activities due to the lack of fuel.
Concerned observers emphasize that ensuring a stable fuel supply and improving management at the distribution level is crucial to restoring normalcy. Otherwise, the impact on urban life is likely to intensify.
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