A nationwide fuel shortage has disrupted operations at filling stations across Bangladesh, leading to unrest among customers. The Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Distributors, Agents and Petrol Pump Owners Association issued a warning on March 23, 2026, urging station owners to ensure staff safety and maintain order. The association said fuel supply would normalize once banks reopen after the Eid holidays, allowing payment orders to resume.

According to the association, the disruption stems from global supply constraints linked to the Iran war, which has limited fuel availability from depots. The situation has caused long queues and incidents of vandalism and assaults on station staff in several areas. The association’s convener, Syed Sajjadul Karim Kabul, signed a letter advising owners to seek police assistance or take personal safety measures if necessary.

The letter also noted that despite the government lifting fuel rationing on March 15, supply has not yet stabilized. Normal distribution is expected to resume once banking operations restart on Tuesday after the holiday period.