Bangladesh's recent energy crisis was largely driven by inadequate fuel storage capacity and irregular shipment schedules disrupted by global conflicts, officials told a parliamentary committee on Sunday.
While authorities have taken emergency measures to stabilise supply, policymakers warned that without stronger infrastructure and better planning, similar disruptions could recur in the future.
The Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources shared these findings on Sunday during a meeting with a special parliamentary committee formed to address the country's ongoing energy situation, reports UNB.
The committee, however, expressed satisfaction with the emergency measures taken by the ministry to stabilise the sector.
The meeting was held at the Parliament with the committee's chairman, Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, in the chair.
Sources within the committee said the ministry presented a detailed report on the current status of the fuel sector.
The ministry acknowledged that Bangladesh currently lacks the infrastructure required to maintain a buffer stock sufficient to withstand several months of supply disruptions.
While the fuel import process is designed to be seamless, the ministry explained that global geopolitical tensions and conflicts have led to irregular arrivals of fuel-carrying vessels.
This unpredictability depleted existing reserves and triggered public panic. The ministry noted that once panic spread, the sudden surge in demand made it nearly impossible to maintain a steady supply with the existing logistics. The special committee recommended that the ministry take immediate steps to ensure an uninterrupted import chain.
Members also inquired about long-term plans to expand storage facilities to prevent similar "panic-buying" situations in the future.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, committee member Md. Abdul Baten said that while the initial
discussions were productive, the committee had
sought a more comprehensive report based on specific queries raised by members.
"We have provided several suggestions and asked tough questions. The ministry is expected to present a follow-up report in the next meeting," he said.
He added, "However, we are satisfied with the immediate steps taken to mitigate the current situation. We have been assured that there is no risk of an immediate fuel shortage now, and precautionary measures are in place for the coming months."
