Army deployed at key oil depots

Amid concerns over fuel oil supply and the arrival of several fuel-laden vessels, the government has ordered the deployment of the army to strengthen security at major oil depots across the country.

The information was disclosed in a message issued by the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday.

According to the ministry, recent reports indicate that fuel oil could not be supplied from several depots in line with a sudden surge in demand from dealers in some areas.

As a result, authorities fear an undesirable situation may arise at several important depots operated by fuel marketing companies.

The depots identified as sensitive include the main facility at Patenga in Chattogram, Daulatpur in Khulna, Baghabari in Sirajganj, Godnail and Fatullah in Narayanganj, Parbatipur in Dinajpur, and the Barishal depot.

The ministry noted that these installations are listed as Key Point Installations (KPI), making it necessary to ensure enhanced security immediately.

In this context, steps have been taken to deploy the army to strengthen overall security at the facilities.

The message also requested the relevant authorities to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of the depots in the current situation.

Meanwhile, six vessels carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG), furnace oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and condensate have arrived at Chattogram port from the Middle East and East Asia.

According to officials of the Chattogram Port Authority and local shipping agents, three vessels brought a combined 126,458 tonnes of LNG, two carried 40,000 tonnes of furnace oil, while another vessel arrived with 19,316 tonnes of LPG.