In a strategic bid to forestall a long-term energy crisis, the government of Bangladesh has officially introduced a fuel rationing system, effective from today, Sunday, 8 March 2026. State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Anindya Islam Amit, announced the decision following an inspection of petrol pumps in the Paribagh area on Friday. He confirmed that formal written directives are being dispatched to all filling stations to ensure immediate compliance.
Addressing Global Volatility
The decision comes as the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) grapples with a complex global supply chain. With approximately 95% of the nation’s fuel requirements met through international imports, the domestic market remains highly susceptible to global geopolitical shifts.
The BPC noted that recent “negative reporting” in the media and on social platforms regarding the country’s fuel reserves has triggered a wave of panic buying. This surge in consumer demand has led to dealers attempting to stockpile fuel beyond their usual quotas, necessitating state intervention to maintain market equilibrium and ensure equitable distribution.
Rationing Quotas by Vehicle Class
The new guidelines delineate specific daily limits for various categories of vehicles, aimed at curbing excessive consumption while maintaining essential transport services.
| Vehicle Type | Fuel Type | Daily Allowance (Litres) |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycles | Petrol / Octane | 2 Litres |
| Private Motor Cars | Petrol / Octane | 10 Litres |
| SUVs (Jeeps) & Microbuses | Petrol / Octane / Diesel | 20 – 25 Litres |
| Pickups & Local Buses | Diesel | 70 – 80 Litres |
| Long-haul Buses & Trucks | Diesel | 200 – 220 Litres |
| Container Lorries | Diesel | 200 – 220 Litres |
Ensuring Energy Security
Minister Anindya Islam Amit emphasised that these measures are precautionary and designed to safeguard the nation’s reserves against unforeseen delays in import shipments. By regulating the amount of fuel a single consumer can purchase in a 24-hour window, the government hopes to stabilise the pressure on depots and eliminate the artificial shortages created by hoarding.
The BPC has urged the public to remain calm, asserting that while the global situation remains “challenging,” the current stocks are sufficient provided that consumption remains within rational limits. Law enforcement agencies and local administrations are expected to monitor petrol pumps to ensure that the new quotas are strictly enforced and that no consumer is unfairly turned away.
