Dhaka, Mar 07 (V7N) — Long queues of vehicles were seen at petrol pumps across the capital on Saturday morning as increased demand and limited supply created disruptions in fuel distribution.

Since early morning, cars and motorcycles have crowded filling stations in different parts of Dhaka. Many drivers reported waiting for hours but still failed to obtain fuel according to the government’s newly set quota system.

On-the-ground observations show that several pumps ran out of fuel quickly, forcing many vehicles to return empty-handed. In some locations, customers were seen arguing with pump operators after being unable to purchase petrol or octane.

Drivers urged the government to strengthen monitoring of petrol pumps to prevent any irregularities or artificial shortages in the market.

Pump owners, however, said the supply they are supposed to receive has not fully arrived, which has contributed to the situation. According to them, the sudden surge in demand has put additional pressure on the distribution system.

Outside the capital, similar scenes were reported at fuel depots and filling stations in several districts, where customers lined up to collect fuel under the vehicle-based quota system introduced by authorities.

Many customers admitted they were buying fuel in advance out of fear that traders might create an artificial shortage, while some pumps in certain areas were temporarily closed due to a lack of available fuel.

Officials concerned with the fuel supply chain said the situation is being caused by unusually high demand, but emphasized that there is no actual fuel shortage in the country at the moment.

END/SMA/AJ