A pilot phase of a QR code-based “Fuel Pass” system has been introduced in Dhaka as part of a broader initiative to enhance discipline, transparency and operational efficiency within Bangladesh’s fuel distribution network. The digital platform is designed to streamline the supply of petrol, ease congestion at filling stations, and curb irregular practices in fuel collection.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), operating under the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, is spearheading the implementation of the system. The initial trial has been launched at two petrol stations in the capital: Trust Filling Station in Tejgaon and Sonar Bangla Filling Station at Asad Gate.
At this experimental stage, the service is restricted to motorcyclists. Under the new arrangement, riders are required to validate their fuel entitlement through a digitally generated pass before purchasing petrol. This mechanism ensures that fuel distribution is strictly aligned with government-approved quotas and vehicle eligibility.
Officials have noted that the existing manual distribution system has long contributed to operational inefficiencies, including prolonged queues, traffic congestion around filling stations, and inconvenience for the public. In some instances, individuals are reported to have queued multiple times in an attempt to obtain fuel beyond their allocated limits, placing additional strain on supply chains and creating artificial pressure in local markets. The Fuel Pass system is expected to mitigate these issues by introducing real-time monitoring and greater accountability.
Once fully operational, the QR-based platform will allow authorities to track fuel distribution instantaneously, ensuring transparency across the supply chain. Policy makers anticipate that this will significantly reduce malpractice, guarantee fair allocation for registered vehicles, and improve overall efficiency in fuel management.
If the pilot proves successful, the government plans a phased expansion of the system across additional filling stations in Dhaka, followed by a nationwide rollout covering all major urban and rural outlets.
Fuel Pass Registration Process
To access the system, users must complete an online registration through an official portal or dedicated mobile application. Applicants are required to submit detailed personal and vehicle information for verification before receiving their digital pass.
| Step |
Process Description |
| 1 |
Visit the official Fuel Pass website or mobile application |
| 2 |
Enter vehicle registration number for preliminary verification |
| 3 |
Provide chassis number, engine number, National Identity Card number, and vehicle manufacturing year |
| 4 |
Submit information and select “Verify Vehicle” |
| 5 |
If verified, proceed to mobile number registration |
| 6 |
Enter mobile number and confirm via one-time password (OTP) |
| 7 |
Set account password and complete registration |
Following successful registration, users are issued a digital Fuel Pass linked to their specific vehicle. This pass must be presented at participating petrol stations to authenticate eligibility and complete fuel transactions.
Authorities have expressed optimism that the digitalisation of fuel distribution will significantly improve transparency, reduce congestion, and minimise public inconvenience. The initiative is widely viewed as an important step towards modernising Bangladesh’s energy management system and strengthening accountability in the downstream fuel sector.
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