Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. Bangladesh has decided to import an additional 45,000 tonnes of diesel from India to meet rising energy demand and avoid fuel shortages ahead of Eid. The supply is being routed through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline and is expected to be completed by April. Around 5,000 tonnes have already reached Bangladesh, while the next consignment is likely to arrive by March 18 or 19. The move comes amid concerns over fuel availability triggered by global geopolitical tensions.
Additional diesel imports to meet rising demand
Officials from the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation confirmed that a proposal for importing 40,000 tonnes of additional diesel has already been received. Once the letter of credit and related formalities are completed, the remaining shipment will be delivered within April. The decision is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply during a period of increased consumption.
Key developments include:
- Total planned import stands at 45,000 tonnes
- First 5,000 tonnes already delivered
- Remaining supply expected by April timeline
- Documentation process underway for bulk shipment
Supply disruption after political transition period
The diesel supply through the pipeline had been halted last year following political changes in Bangladesh. During the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, the cross-border energy cooperation slowed down significantly. Before the pipeline, diesel was transported via rail wagons, which proved costly and time-consuming.
Pipeline operations resume under new government
With the new government led by Tarique Rahman taking charge after recent elections, energy ties with India have stabilised. Supplies through the pipeline have resumed, with diesel being transported from Numaligarh Refinery Limited in India to the Parbatipur depot in northern Bangladesh. The pipeline, inaugurated in March 2023 by Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hasina, has significantly streamlined fuel logistics.
West Asia tensions triggered fuel panic buying
Rising tensions in West Asia, particularly involving conflict between Israel and Iran, had sparked fears of fuel shortages in Bangladesh. This led to panic buying at petrol pumps and long queues across the country. The government responded by introducing rationing measures to control supply and prevent hoarding.
Situation highlights:
- Panic buying observed at fuel stations
- Temporary rationing imposed nationwide
- Public concern over supply disruptions
- Government intervention to stabilise availability
Eid travel demand prompts lifting restrictions
With diesel supplies stabilising, authorities have now withdrawn rationing restrictions. The decision is crucial ahead of Eid, when millions travel from cities to their hometowns. Adequate fuel availability is expected to ensure smooth transportation services, especially for buses and commercial vehicles.
Pipeline facts and advantages:
- Total length: 131.5 km
- India stretch: 5 km, Bangladesh stretch: 126.5 km
- Annual capacity: 1 million metric tonnes
- Benefits include lower transport cost and reduced carbon footprint
Officials maintain that fuel stocks are now sufficient and there is no need for public concern, as steady supplies from India are expected to keep the situation under control.
