Fuel Diverted to Open Market in Demra

Allegations of irregular fuel distribution have emerged in Demra, a densely populated area of Dhaka, where petrol and diesel are reportedly being siphoned from filling stations and sold in the open market. This practice has triggered public frustration, as motorists are left queuing for hours under intense heat with little assurance of supply.

A field visit conducted from late Tuesday night (21 April) through Wednesday afternoon (22 April) across several filling stations revealed that fuel was being openly dispensed into drums and bottles. These containers were subsequently transported for resale in informal markets at prices reportedly exceeding the government’s fixed rates.

At approximately 12:10 a.m. on Tuesday, activity at a filling station in the Staff Quarter area showed workers filling multiple large drums brought in by pickup vehicles. When questioned, individuals involved acknowledged that the fuel collected in this manner was intended for resale in local markets and for delivery to various destinations.

Local residents have accused certain station owners of systematically diverting fuel supplies. One station frequently mentioned is owned by Zahurul Islam Rony Munshi, who is said to control several filling stations in different regions, including Demra, Gazipur, and Mymensingh. Residents allege that these outlets are engaged in similar practices, enabling the unauthorised distribution of fuel.

A local open-market fuel seller claimed that the ongoing fuel shortage has created opportunities for middlemen to profit by selling at inflated prices. He urged authorities to take swift legal action against such practices, warning that failure to act could embolden hoarding syndicates and exacerbate the crisis.

Meanwhile, the station owner denied any wrongdoing, stating that fuel sales are conducted in compliance with government regulations. However, he did not provide a clear explanation regarding the observed distribution of fuel into drums.

Law enforcement authorities have acknowledged the issue. The Officer-in-Charge of Demra Police Station confirmed that the প্রশাসন is actively monitoring the situation and will take action against any ব্যক্তি or প্রতিষ্ঠান found violating fuel distribution rules or engaging in illegal stockpiling.

Observed Irregularities in Fuel Distribution

The situation highlights a growing imbalance between supply and demand, compounded by alleged malpractice within the distribution network. Without stricter enforcement and transparent oversight, consumers may continue to bear the brunt of the disruption.