The government on Thursday launched a pilot program for a QR code-based “Fuel Pass” app, requiring vehicle owners to verify allocated fuel amounts before refuelling.
The initiative is being implemented by the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources and the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources.
Initially, the system is being piloted at two filling stations in Dhaka—Trust Filling Station in Tejgaon and Sonar Bangla Filling Station in Asadgate—exclusively for motorcycle riders.
Tackling queues and irregularities
Officials said the manual fuel distribution system often leads to long queues and irregularities, with some individuals collecting fuel multiple times beyond their actual requirement, creating artificial shortages.
A ministry source said the digital system would enable real-time monitoring of fuel distribution and allocations, reducing opportunities for misuse.
The central dashboard will provide an instant overview of nationwide fuel stock levels and distribution patterns, helping improve management during supply fluctuations.
How the system works
The Fuel Pass system is integrated with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) central database, allowing verification of vehicle and owner information.
Vehicle owners without smartphones can register online through the Fuel Pass website and print their QR codes. At filling stations, scanning the code will display the driver’s fuel allocation.
Benefits and oversight
Station owners will be able to input allocation data digitally, reducing discrepancies, while authorities can track fuel stocks and distribution patterns nationwide in real time.
A senior BPC official said the platform would modernise fuel distribution, ensure proper allocation and significantly reduce queues and irregularities.
Another official said linking the system with the BRTA database allows instant verification, prevents misuse and supports real-time monitoring, which is crucial for national fuel security.
Application process and expansion
To obtain a Fuel Pass, users must apply via fuelpass.gov.bd using details of vehicles registered with BRTA. After verification through a one-time password (OTP), registration can be completed.
Required documents may include a National Identity Card (NID), vehicle registration (blue book), driving licence, active mobile number and a passport-sized photograph.
Initially limited to motorcycle riders in Dhaka, the system is expected to be expanded gradually to all vehicle types nationwide.
Officials said the initiative would strengthen energy security and ensure a more transparent, efficient and technology-driven fuel distribution system.
