Army and Police Requested to Safeguard Fuel Supplies

The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has formally submitted a proposal to the Energy and Mineral Resources Division seeking the immediate deployment of the Bangladesh Army to secure the nation’s primary fuel depots. This urgent appeal comes amidst growing concerns over supply chain disruptions and potential civil unrest at distribution points. In a parallel request, the BPC has also urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to intensify police patrols at filling stations nationwide to prevent hoarding and maintain public order.

Securing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

In a letter signed by BPC Chairman Md. Rezanur Rahman, the corporation highlighted that the country’s major fuel storage facilities are classified as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Given the current volatile climate, these installations require the highest level of protection to ensure the continued flow of energy.

The BPC noted that dealers are currently facing difficulties meeting a sudden surge in demand. This spike has led to fears of “untoward incidents” at several critical hubs. The locations earmarked for urgent military protection include:

Chattogram: Main installations of oil marketing companies in Patenga.

Khulna: The Daulatpur depot.

Sirajganj: The Baghabari facility.

Narayanganj: Depots in Godnail and Fatullah.

Dinajpur: The Parbatipur distribution hub.

Barishal: Regional storage facilities.

Combating Panic Buying and Hoarding

The second branch of the BPC’s strategy addresses the consumer end of the supply chain. Misleading reports circulating on social media regarding fuel stocks have triggered a wave of panic buying. The BPC observed that some consumers are attempting to procure fuel far in excess of their actual needs for unauthorised domestic storage.

To mitigate this, the BPC has already issued a press release mandating a limit on the volume of fuel sold to individual customers at the pump. However, this restriction has led to friction between station staff and the public. Consequently, the BPC believes that a visible police presence is essential to deter aggression and ensure the safety of employees at filling stations.

Current Fuel Infrastructure and Proposed Security

The government is expected to review these proposals shortly. In the interim, the BPC has reassured the public that while demand has spiked, the national reserves remain functional, provided that consumption returns to normal, regulated levels.