Fuel Prices Surge by up to 35 Taka per Liter; Long Queues Persist at Filling Stations

Effective from midnight Saturday, the new rates set Diesel at 115 BDT, Kerosene at 130 BDT, Petrol at 135 BDT, and Octane at 140 BDT per liter. Despite the sharp increase, long queues of motorcycles and private cars were seen at filling stations in Dhaka's Asad Gate, Tejgaon, and Paribagh areas from early Sunday morning.

The sudden spike has triggered widespread dissatisfaction among consumers. Drivers waiting in line complained that despite the higher prices, many fuel pumps are still operating under a "rationing system," limiting the amount of fuel sold per vehicle. Concerns are mounting that this hike will lead to an immediate surge in transport fares and the cost of essential commodities, further straining the cost of living for the general public.

Market Reaction and Supply Chain Stability: While consumers are distressed, the Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners' Association has welcomed the government's decision. Member Secretary Mir Ahsan Uddin Parvez stated that aligning domestic rates with international market prices will discourage artificial hoarding and illegal stockpiling. He expressed optimism that the supply chain would stabilize within a few days as the "artificial crisis" begins to fade.

Key Data Points of the Price Adjustment:

• Diesel: Increased to 115 BDT/Liter.

• Kerosene: Increased to 130 BDT/Liter.

• Petrol: Increased to 135 BDT/Liter.

• Octane: Increased to 140 BDT/Liter.

Business leaders noted that adopting a fuel policy that mirrors the market-linked pricing systems of developed international nations is essential for long-term transparency. Although the government had reduced prices by 2 BDT per liter on February 1, the persistent crisis over the last 45 days ultimately forced this significant price correction. The focus now shifts to how the authorities will manage the subsequent inflationary pressure on the broader economy.