Online Desk

A severe fuel shortage in Dhaka has led to long and widespread, as hundreds of vehicles lined up overnight at a filling station in the Bijoy Sarani area.

On Saturday night stretching into Sunday morning, a long queue of motorcycles, private cars, and cargo trucks was seen waiting for fuel. Around 2:00 AM, the line extended from Mohakhali to Tejgaon, reflecting the intensity of the crisis. The scene—headlights glowing in the dark and exhausted—highlighted an increasingly abnormal situation.

Kamrul Hasan, a motorcyclist from Rayerbag, said he had been waiting since 9:00 PM and only managed to get fuel worth 600 taka by early morning. After more than seven hours in line, he said that such a situation would make normal daily life difficult if it continues.

A rough count showed around 483 motorcycles, 369 private cars, and 31 trucks waiting in line. Many people were seen sleeping on their bikes, sitting on road dividers, or passing time on their phones.

According to pump authorities, fuel supply has dropped significantly—from 50,000–52,000 liters per day to just 37,000–40,000 liters. Panic buying has worsened the situation, as many people, even with sufficient fuel in their tanks, are rushing to refill amid uncertainty.

To manage the pressure, separate lines were arranged for motorcycles, private cars, and trucks, but congestion remained high. Nearby, makeshift food stalls sprang up to serve those waiting, selling tea, snacks, and cigarettes throughout the night. Even public toilets experienced unusual crowding.

Ride-share driver Shaheen Khan from Demra said he had visited multiple pumps without success before finally joining this queue. He also raised concerns about a possible artificial shortage.

To cope with demand, fuel sales have been rationed: up to 2,400 taka for private cars, 600 taka for motorcycles, and fixed limits for trucks.

As of Sunday morning, the queue had not shortened significantly. With more vehicles joining, waiting times are increasing, raising concerns and frustration in the transport sector.

Since most filling stations in the city remain closed at night, pressure has concentrated on a few operational pumps. Residents and transport workers are now urging authorities to restore normal fuel supply as soon as possible.