Four traders fined for fuel hoarding at Singra

SINGRA, NATORE, Mar 8: Authorities in Singra, Natore, have cracked down on illegal fuel storage after discovering a trader hoarding petrol in an underground water tank. 

Executive Magistrate and Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Abdullah Al Rifat fined Rubel Hossain, 34, Tk 5,000 for the violation and ordered that the seized fuel be transferred to a legitimate storage facility within two days.

The action followed a tip-off regarding illegal fuel storage in a bamboo grove in Ningoin Bhatopara area of Singra municipality. Officials found 10,000 litres of petrol kept unlawfully in a water tank buried underground. "Storing fuel illegally is a serious violation under the Petroleum Act, 2016," said UNO Abdullah Al Rifat. "This fine serves as a warning to traders who flout the law."

Simultaneously, monitoring operations in Sherkol and Hatiandah markets led to fines totalling Tk 8,000 for three other traders under the Consumer Rights Protection Act for irregularities in fuel distribution and retail.

During the inspections, UNO Rifat emphasised that strict enforcement measures would continue across the upazila. "We have also carried out surprise checks at four fuel pumps and several retail outlets to ensure compliance," he added. "Our aim is to prevent hoarding and protect consumers from price manipulation."

Locals welcomed the crackdown, noting that illegal fuel storage and price inflation had become a concern amid rising global tensions affecting the oil market. "It is reassuring to see the authorities take action against unscrupulous traders," said a resident of Singra municipality.

The UNO also warned that repeat offenders would face harsher penalties, including possible closure of their business licenses. The operation reflects growing vigilance in upazilas across the country to ensure fuel supply and protect consumers from unfair practices.