The Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association announced plans to close fuel stations from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily, citing supply shortages and logistical challenges. The decision was discussed at a meeting in Dhaka’s Moghbazar on Tuesday, where members said filling stations were not receiving adequate fuel from depots.

Owners identified supply and transportation management as their biggest challenges. They explained that partial tanker loads increase transport costs and cause financial losses, urging that tankers be fully loaded to ensure efficient distribution. They also called for better coordination when supplying multiple stations within the same district to reduce inefficiencies.

The association acknowledged that some unauthorized fuel sales or hoarding might occur but stressed that such actions do not represent the entire sector. They stated that any station withholding sales despite having fuel should face strict action, including possible cancellation of dealership rights, with cooperation from both the government and the association.