B Mirror Report: The government has instructed Deputy Commissioners (DCs) across the country to ensure the steady availability of diesel for farmers.

This was announced by Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Monir Hossain Chowdhury, at a press conference held at the Secretariat on Thursday.

He said a virtual meeting was held between the ministry and DCs of all 64 districts. During the meeting, officials were directed to take necessary steps to supply diesel to farmers according to demand, as the country currently has sufficient reserves.

He expressed hope that, following these directives, farmers will have uninterrupted access to diesel.

Monir stated that the country now has approximately 271,374 tonnes of diesel in stock, adding that there is no difficulty in supplying fuel to farmers.

He also urged farmers to inform local authorities if they face any problems in obtaining diesel.

Additionally, he said there is no shortage of octane and petrol, and that fuel oil is being supplied to petrol pumps across the country as usual.

Referring to the global conflict situation, Monir noted that some individuals may be illegally hoarding fuel, and the government has continued its efforts to stop such practices.

He added that some consumers, fearing a possible price increase, are purchasing more fuel than necessary, which is putting extra pressure on petrol pumps.

Considering the difficulties faced by consumers, the government has not increased fuel prices, he said.

“Instructions have been given to depot authorities and petrol pump owners to maintain normal supply,” he added.