Fuel shortages continued across Dhaka on Wednesday, with long queues forming at many petrol pumps despite the government’s withdrawal of the rationing system and assurances that supply would normalize. Field visits to areas including Khilkhet, Airport, Uttara, Mohakhali, and Moghbazar showed that nearly half of the filling stations had suspended operations, while others faced heavy demand and long waiting times. Many drivers reported spending hours searching for octane, with some returning home empty-handed.

Petrol pump owners said fuel was being prioritized for long-distance buses ahead of Eid, leaving private vehicle owners with limited supply. The Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Agents, and Petrol Pump Owners Association blamed poor coordination between the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and the ministry for the ongoing disruptions. BPC officials, however, denied any shortage, attributing the problem to panic buying triggered by misinformation and the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The government had earlier imposed and then lifted fuel rationing due to global instability. Despite official claims of sufficient reserves, the situation on the ground remained strained, with consumers facing significant inconvenience.