Border Guard Deployed to Secure Fuel in Rajshahi

In a proactive move to prevent fuel smuggling and safeguard domestic reserves, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has deployed three platoons to key oil depots in Rajshahi. The measure responds to the heightened risk of cross-border fuel trafficking, prompted by Bangladesh’s subsidised fuel prices, which are significantly lower than those in neighbouring countries.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday at 11:30 am outside the Jamuna Oil Depot in Shiroil Colony near Rajshahi Railway Station, Lieutenant Colonel Riaz Shahriar, commander of the Rajshahi Battalion (1 BGB), outlined the deployment strategy. He emphasised that government subsidies keep domestic fuel prices comparatively low, creating incentives for illegal cross-border trade. “To counteract these activities, the BGB is maintaining strict surveillance within eight kilometres of the border, while other law enforcement agencies monitor areas beyond this zone,” he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Shahriar also provided details on the fuel supply network in Rajshahi. Three major depots—Padma, Meghna, and Jamuna—collectively supply 64 petrol stations across the district. Of these, 12 stations are located within the high-risk eight-kilometre border zone, where continuous monitoring ensures uninterrupted supply. Special patrols and inspections are conducted along river routes and roadways to prevent smuggling in barrels or jerrycans, particularly at international commerce points (ICT), where tanker movements are closely examined.

The table below summarises depot operations and security measures:

According to BGB sources, security enforcement includes 16 border outposts conducting continuous operations. To date, 192 special patrols and 228 mobile checkpoints have been completed. At Belpukur and Rajabari checkpoints alone, approximately 2,500 vehicles have undergone inspections. Riverine operations have included 48 speedboat patrols to monitor and prevent smuggling via waterways.

The press conference was attended by senior officers from multiple levels of the BGB, highlighting the organisation’s coordinated approach to fuel security. Lieutenant Colonel Shahriar reassured the public that the BGB remains vigilant, taking all necessary measures to protect domestic fuel reserves and ensure steady supply across Rajshahi.

Overall, the deployment reflects Bangladesh’s strategic effort to curb fuel smuggling, strengthen border security, and maintain energy stability in the region, particularly in areas most vulnerable to illegal cross-border activity.