The ongoing fuel crisis is raising concerns about wider economic fallout, as shortages disrupt transport, agriculture, and industrial production across Bangladesh.
Global fuel markets have remained volatile since the conflict in Iran, pushing up prices worldwide. Although domestic prices have not been adjusted, long queues at filling stations across the country suggest a severe supply strain, despite government assurances that there is no shortage.
Motorists have been waiting for hours, often returning empty-handed, while incidents of frustration and altercations have been reported in Dhaka and other regions.
The crisis is already affecting key sectors. Rising transportation costs, disruptions in agricultural irrigation due to diesel shortages, and halted fertilizer production amid gas supply constraints are emerging as major concerns.
Experts warn that continued disruption could lead to a fertilizer shortage in the upcoming season, potentially affecting food production.
Analysts attribute the situation to Bangladesh’s dependence on imported fuel, rising global prices, and limited investment in domestic gas exploration, all of which are intensifying inflationary pressure.
Transport sector hit
The transport sector has been particularly affected, with diesel shortages disrupting truck, covered van, and inland waterway operations. Transport costs and passenger fares have increased, with some operators reportedly charging up to Tk10,000 per trip on certain routes.
Inland waterway transport is also nearing paralysis, affecting the movement of goods from Chittagong Port and worsening supply chain disruptions.
Agriculture under pressure
The crisis is severely impacting irrigation, particularly for Boro rice cultivation. Diesel shortages and power outages have left many irrigation pumps idle during the peak season.
Farmers in districts including Khulna, Meherpur, and Sirajganj and Patuakhali report rising costs and difficulty accessing fuel.
“Diesel is unavailable in the market. Many are hoarding it and selling small quantities at inflated prices,” said Paresh Das, a farmer from Patuakhali. “Frequent power outages make it worse, increasing production costs.”
Authorities say emergency diesel imports are underway, but supply has yet to normalize at the field level.
Rural industries struggle
Small and cottage industries are among the hardest hit, with frequent load-shedding and transport disruptions pushing many toward closure.
“Kourikhara BSCIC Industrial Estate operates under rural electrification. Power outages are frequent,” said MA Hashem, an estate manager. “Now even diesel is scarce and expensive, increasing production costs.”
Experts recommend expanding solar and biogas use, improving access to financing, and adopting energy-efficient technologies.
Fisheries, poultry sectors affected
Fisheries and poultry sectors are also facing mounting losses. Diesel shortages have forced many fishermen to suspend operations, reducing supply and income in coastal areas.
Poultry farmers report chick mortality due to the inability to run generators during power outages.
“Due to the fuel shortage, it has become nearly impossible to run generators,” said Shahjahan Mridha, a poultry farmer in Gazipur. “Costs are rising, but market prices are not keeping pace.”
Economists warn that prolonged shortages could further drive up prices of essential commodities and deepen economic strain across both urban and rural areas.
