Fuel Shortage Sparks Road Block in Gaibandha

Despite administrative measures aimed at alleviating the ongoing fuel crisis, the majority of motorcyclists in Gaibandha are struggling to obtain petrol and diesel. Frustration among the riders escalated on Tuesday (24 March), culminating in a temporary road blockade.

Throughout the day, hundreds of motorcyclists found themselves stranded at various filling stations across the district, unable to purchase fuel. The situation escalated around midday when riders obstructed the Gaibandha–Palashbari road in protest. Traffic remained halted for nearly an hour until law enforcement intervened and assured the demonstrators that the issue would be resolved promptly. Following this, the blockade was lifted.

Earlier on Tuesday afternoon, tensions erupted at the Kadiria Filling Station in Gaibandha town. A dispute among customers queuing for fuel escalated into a physical confrontation.

By 11:00 pm, filling station authorities reported that fuel delivery trucks were en route. They indicated that, with police support, distribution could resume between 11:30 pm and midnight. In addition, late-night supplies were being provided at the Gobindobhog Pump to cater to motorcyclists.

Administrative Measures

Following an emergency meeting on Monday (23 March) between the district administration and pump owners, it was decided that fuel distribution at each station would be supervised by an executive magistrate and police personnel. Furthermore, fuel would only be dispensed to motorcyclists presenting a helmet, valid driving licence, and proper documentation.

Under this directive, limited fuel supplies were distributed on Monday evening at two locations: DB Road and the Bus Stand area. However, as news of availability spread, hundreds of motorcyclists quickly converged on the stations. Many were left empty-handed, particularly those lacking the required paperwork.

To prevent hoarding and wastage, authorities restricted each motorcycle to a maximum fuel purchase of 500 taka. Despite these measures, supply fell short of demand, exacerbating the crisis.

Public Complaints and Market Irregularities

Affected riders voiced frustration over disruption to their daily work and livelihoods. Numerous filling stations displayed “No Fuel” notices, while local markets reportedly sold bottled petrol and diesel at double the official rate. Riders allege that some pump owners are covertly diverting fuel for profit.

Representatives of the pump owners’ association acknowledged that fuel supplies in the district remain irregular and insufficient. The daily requirement of petrol, octane, and diesel is far higher than deliveries, resulting in ongoing shortages.

Fuel Supply vs. Daily Demand in Gaibandha

Pump managers confirmed the severe shortage. At SE Kadi & Sons, 4,000 litres distributed on Monday were exhausted by 3:00 am Tuesday, forcing a temporary closure. Similarly, Rahman Pump resumed distribution at 8:00 pm under police supervision, but supplies were depleted by 5:20 am, with the station remaining closed thereafter.

The crisis highlights the widening gap between fuel demand and availability, leaving motorcyclists and the wider community grappling with uncertainty and economic disruption.