Adulterated oil damaging car engines, environment

Sustainability has been a growing concern over the past two to three decades, prompting numerous changes in industrial practices to reduce environmental impacts. In Bangladesh, measures such as polythene bans have marked significant steps towards a greener future, alongside the country's thriving jute production, one of the largest in the world. Amid these developments, fuel adulteration has emerged as a serious national issue, placing heavy economic, technical and regulatory burdens on the country's transportation systems.

The increasing demand for petrol and octane over the last decade - driven by rapid growth in individual mobility, commercial transport, ride-sharing and logistics - has created lucrative opportunities for unscrupulous players in the fuel supply chain. Substandard fuel, often mixed with condensate, kerosene, low-quality chemicals and recycled lubricants, is widely traded in the market. Consequently, vehicle owners are reporting rising instances of engine failures, reduced fuel efficiency and higher repair costs, all directly linked to the adulteration crisis.

One company at the centre of this issue is Global Oil Distribution Ltd. (pseudonym), a medium-sized fuel distributor supplying diesel, petrol, and lubricants to retail stations in urban and semi-urban areas. Established to meet rising energy demands, the company operates on a franchise basis, where partner stations rely on it for a steady fuel supply and brand support. Its B2B distribution model is designed to prioritise supply-chain efficiency and long-term customer relationships.

However, the company faces significant challenges. Loopholes enabling fuel adulteration stem from weak internal controls and the lack of real-time monitoring of fuel movement. Competitive pressures in the fuel distribution market have sometimes led the company to reduce expenditure at the expense of strict quality control.

To address these issues and restore confidence, the company must invest in digital monitoring technologies, including GPS tracking of tankers, automated fuel quality sensors and blockchain-verified supply chains. Establishing a clear quality-control system and revising incentive structures to promote ethical performance are also essential.

Md. Mahadi Hasan Bappy

Undergrad student

Bachelor of Business Administration

North South University