The government has launched a pilot of a mobile application for two filling stations in Dhaka, aiming to streamline fuel distribution, curb irregularities, and bring transparency to a system strained by global uncertainty.
Developed under the Energy and Mineral Resources Division initially for motorcycle users, the QR code-based Fuel Pass app is being implemented by the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) at Trust Filling Station near Bijoy Sarani and Sonar Bangla Filling Station in Asad Gate.
Officials said the system would be expanded nationwide for all types of vehicles if the pilot proves successful, as the US–Israel war on Iran continues to mount pressure on global energy supply chains.
The move comes amid long queues at filling stations, even when supply remains adequate. Authorities attribute the situation to inefficiencies in manual distribution and repeated fuel collection by some individuals, which contributes to artificial shortages.
The digital system will integrate fuel distribution with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority’s database to track vehicle-specific allocation and usage.
Users will receive a QR code linked to their vehicle registration, allowing filling stations to digitally record fuel distribution. Consumers will be able to view their quota and collect fuel by scanning the code, while a centralised dashboard will enable authorities to monitor nationwide supply in real time.
To ensure accessibility, users without smartphones can register at the official website (https://fuelpass.gov.bd/) and download or print their QR codes.
Energy Division Joint Secretary Monir Hossain Chowdhury briefed the media about the app at the Secretariat yesterday. The initiative would reduce misuse, improve efficiency, and strengthen fuel management, particularly during crises, he said, urging stakeholders to support its rapid expansion.
Meanwhile, a major consignment of fuel has arrived at Chattogram Port, raising hopes of easing the ongoing octane shortage.
The Marshall Islands-flagged tanker MT Central Star, carrying 26,000 tonnes of refined octane from Malaysia, anchored at the outer anchorage on Wednesday night.
Port Secretary Syed Rafayet Hossain said five vessels carrying octane, diesel, and LPG from Malaysia, India, and China have already reached the port, with more expected in the coming days. BPC will unload the shipments as scheduled.
According to BPC data, around 34,000 tonnes of diesel arrived from Malaysia on Wednesday, while about 7,500 tonnes of LPG from India, China, and Malaysia has also reached the port.
Officials said contracts were signed in March to import 440,000 tonnes of diesel and 200,000 tonnes of crude oil, though several shipments were delayed due to the war. With a ceasefire now easing vessel movement, supply is expected to stabilise soon, Monir said.
Over the past month, a severe octane shortage for motorcycles and cars has disrupted the retail market, forcing motorists to queue for hours, often without securing adequate fuel.
At the same time, enforcement drives have intensified. On April 8 alone, authorities conducted 361 drives across the country, recovering 1,362 litres of illegally hoarded fuel. The authorities filed 192 cases, jailed two individuals, and imposed fines of Tk 579,050 during the drives.
Between March 3 and April 8, a total of 7,342 drives led to the recovery of 469,042 litres of fuel, with 3,011 cases filed, 36 individuals jailed, and fines totalling Tk 14.384 million.
Despite the market strain, officials maintain that supply remains sufficient. As of April 9, the country holds 143,143 tonnes of diesel, 16,812 tonnes of petrol, and 9,569 tonnes of octane in stock.
“There is no shortage of diesel,” Monir said, attributing continued pressure on filling stations to panic buying. “Fuel is being supplied regularly in line with demand.”
“The government has ensured fuel supply for the next two months, and there will be no shortage,” he added.