B Mirror Report: The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has introduced limits on fuel oil sales at the consumer level following concerns about stock levels in the country.

In a press release issued on Friday, BPC said that ongoing global tensions and negative reports regarding fuel reserves in the media and on social platforms have triggered panic buying among consumers, leading to an unusual surge in demand.

The corporation noted that fuel dealers have recently been attempting to withdraw larger quantities of oil from depots, while some consumers are reportedly purchasing fuel beyond their actual needs and storing it illegally.

To address the situation, BPC has set specific limits on fuel sales per trip based on vehicle categories. Under the new directive, motorcycles will be allowed to buy up to two litres of octane or petrol, while private cars can purchase a maximum of 10 litres. Sport utility vehicles (SUVs), jeeps and microbuses will be permitted to take between 20 and 25 litres.

Diesel-run pickups and local buses can receive 70 to 80 litres, whereas long-distance buses, trucks, covered vans and container carriers will be supplied with 200 to 220 litres.

The corporation also instructed filling stations to issue purchase receipts mentioning the type, quantity and price of the fuel. Consumers will need to submit the original copy of their previous receipt during their next purchase.

Dealers have been directed to follow the newly fixed allocation while supplying fuel to customers. At the same time, filling stations must report their stock and sales data to the respective depots before withdrawing fuel.

Marketing companies have been told to verify stock and sales information before delivering oil to dealers, and the notice clearly stated that supplying fuel beyond the allocated amount will not be permitted under any circumstances.

BPC further assured that steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply in the country. Import schedules have already been fixed and shipments are arriving regularly. In addition, oil is being transported from main installations to depots across the country through rail wagon tankers.

The corporation expressed hope that a buffer stock of fuel oil will be established in the country soon.

The notice also warned that fuel must be sold at government-fixed prices, and charging higher prices by citing a crisis would be considered a legal offence.

BPC clarified that the government has not taken any decision to increase fuel prices under the current situation.