Dhaka, April 2, 2026 — Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood has urged citizens to adopt a more cautious and disciplined approach to energy use, warning that panic buying could disrupt the country’s otherwise stable fuel and electricity supply. Report BSS
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, the minister said the government is continuing to manage fuel distribution across the country based on daily stock assessments and supply plans, despite ongoing global energy challenges.
Responding to a supplementary question from lawmaker Md Shafiqul Islam (Patuakhali-2), he acknowledged reports of irregularities at the local level, including dealers allegedly closing pumps and selling fuel from private premises. He said such issues can be addressed through law enforcement if reported to the authorities.
Highlighting the broader context, the minister noted that the current energy situation is part of a global crisis but emphasized that Bangladesh is handling it with careful management. He urged the public to avoid unnecessary stockpiling and purchase only essential quantities of fuel.
“If people cooperate and refrain from panic buying, there will be no major disruption in fuel and electricity supply,” he said, adding that many countries are already practicing energy austerity measures and Bangladesh is encouraging similar behavior.
The minister also informed Parliament that the government is planning to utilize gas from Bhola to support power generation, including supplying fuel to existing plants in Khulna.
Replying to another question from lawmaker Md Abul Hasnat (Cumilla-4), he said fuel is being supplied to petrol pumps regularly according to allocation plans. However, following recent geopolitical tensions involving Iran, demand has surged sharply.
“Fuel that previously lasted one to one-and-a-half days at pumps is now being sold out within two hours,” he said, attributing long queues at petrol stations to panic-driven demand rather than supply shortages.
He reiterated that fuel supply remains uninterrupted and expressed confidence that with public cooperation, the government will be able to maintain stability in the energy sector.
