India to give Bangladesh 5,000 ton diesel amid fuel concerns
What's the story
India will supply 5,000 tons of diesel to Bangladesh through a pipeline. The consignment is expected to enter the country via the Parbatipur border on Tuesday. Muhammad Rezanur Rahman, chairman of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), said this shipment is part of an agreement under which India will supply 180,000 tons of diesel annually via pipeline.
Import details
Supply amid concerns over illegal stockpiling
Rahman said, "According to the agreement, at least 90,000 tons of diesel should be imported to Bangladesh within six months." He added that they hope to import the total amount within two months. "The consignment arriving today is 5,000 tons, and we hope that within the next two months, we will bring in the total diesel amount for the entire six months," BPC chairman said. The supply comes amid concerns over illegal stockpiling and market manipulation by traders in Bangladesh.
Government response
Bangladesh government imposes fuel supply limits
The Bangladesh Energy Ministry has taken note of reports on traders creating an artificial shortage by illegally stockpiling fuel. To combat this, the government has imposed fuel supply limits based on vehicle categories. However, some petrol pumps are reportedly selling fuel beyond these limits and hoarding additional stock for profit.
Legal action
Mobile court drives launched to prevent illegal stockpiling
In light of these issues, the Bangladesh Energy Ministry said the government conducted mobile court drives to prevent illegal stockpiling and sales beyond prescribed limits. The Executive Magistrate conducted operations in Dhaka at various filling stations. While City Filling Station was dry, Clean Fuel operated in compliance with regulations, it said.