Bangladesh Implements Fuel Rationing Amid Middle East Conflict

On March 8, 2023, Bangladesh began implementing fuel rationing in response to an escalating energy crisis linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The country, which relies on imports for 95% of its oil and gas, has seen significant disruptions following the U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Tehran across the Gulf region. The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has restricted fuel sales for most vehicles, capping purchases to mitigate panic buying and hoarding among consumers. For instance, motorcyclists are now limited to a maximum of two liters per refueling.

South China Morning PostThe Straits Times

The introduction of fuel rationing has resulted in long queues at petrol stations, leading to public frustration and unrest. Reports indicate that one individual, 25-year-old Nirob Hossain, was killed during a confrontation at a filling station in Jhenaidah, which incited anger among the public. Following this incident, protests erupted, with crowds vandalizing a filling station and setting three buses on fire. Eyewitness accounts reveal that many individuals have been waiting for extended periods to secure fuel, with some expressing dissatisfaction over the limitations imposed on their purchases.

The Straits Times

The fuel rationing has significantly impacted daily life in Bangladesh, particularly for those reliant on vehicles for transportation. Motorcyclist Md Al-Amin noted that he typically fills his tank once a week but now must return to the station more frequently due to the new restrictions. Additionally, the energy crisis has affected the agricultural sector, with five of the six fertilizer factories in the country temporarily closing until March 18, according to Ahsan Quddus Kuntal from the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation.

The Straits Times

The BPC has acknowledged the surge in consumer demand during this crisis, stating, “Consumers tend to buy more than they usually purchase” during times of crisis. The corporation has also indicated that fuel deliveries are expected to resume soon, although the situation remains tense.

South China Morning Post

Critics of the government's response have raised concerns about the adequacy of measures taken to address the energy crisis. The public outcry following the death of Nirob Hossain highlights the potential for unrest as citizens grapple with the implications of fuel rationing on their daily lives.

The Straits Times

While reports consistently indicate the initiation of fuel rationing and its immediate effects, discrepancies exist regarding the scale of unrest and the exact number of individuals affected by the fuel restrictions. Further information on the anticipated timeline for the resumption of normal fuel supplies remains unclear.

The Straits Times

• “Consumers tend to buy more than they usually purchase” during times of crisis, BPC said in a statement.” — Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation

The Straits Times

• “I waited for more than an hour to get two litres,” — Md Al-Amin, Motorcyclist

The Straits Times

• “I already waited yesterday, and they closed the station just one car ahead of me,” — Dr. AKM Ruhul Amin, Paediatrician

The Straits Times

The situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve as the government navigates the complexities of an energy crisis exacerbated by international conflict.

South China Morning Post