India has taken a significant step to address Bangladesh’s growing fuel shortage by supplying 5,000 tonnes of diesel through the Parbatipur border pipeline on Tuesday. Under a bilateral agreement, Bangladesh will import a total of 180,000 tonnes of diesel annually from India, with a minimum of 90,000 tonnes delivered every six months. The arrangement aims to ensure a steady and reliable fuel supply to meet the country’s transportation and industrial needs.
Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) Chairman Mohammad Reza Nur Rahman confirmed that the recent delivery is part of the ongoing agreement. The Bangladeshi government plans to import the full six-month quota over the next two months. The supply comes amid concerns over domestic diesel and petrol reserves, with reports of some traders hoarding fuel to create artificial shortages, causing difficulties for ordinary citizens.
To prevent further disruption, the Bangladeshi government has implemented several measures. Fuel allocations are now limited based on vehicle categories to curb illegal stockpiling. Mobile court operations have been launched to penalize petrol pumps violating regulations, and executive magistrates conducted surprise inspections across Dhaka, identifying several stations breaching rules.
Authorities say the pipeline supply from India will provide vital relief to Bangladesh’s economy and transport sector. The use of the pipeline ensures lower transportation costs and uninterrupted delivery. Officials have assured that strict action will be taken against fuel hoarders and that imports from India will help resolve the country’s energy shortage. The initiative also strengthens bilateral relations and enhances energy security in the region.