Fuel crisis hits Dinajpur's Hili as station reopens after 4-day

Long queues of vehicles stretched nearly a kilometre at the only filling station of Hili municipality in Dinajpur district after fuel supply resumed following a four-day disruption, causing severe hardship for motorists and transport operators.

Vehicles began lining up since the previous night to secure fuel as supply remained limited.

The filling station, operating under tight supervision, has been placed under round-the-clock security by Upazila administration and Hakimpur Police Station to manage the large crowd and maintain order.

From early Saturday morning, motorists were seen waiting in long lines to collect fuel. Each motorcycle rider is being allocated a maximum of Tk 300 worth of fuel due to the shortage. 

Truck drivers at the land port have also been severely affected by the diesel crisis, resulting in delays in cargo transport and disruptions in trade activities.

The shortage has left transport operators stranded for hours, with many unable to operate according to demand. 

Authorities say the situation has arisen due to insufficient fuel supply from the depot, making it impossible to meet local demand.

Meanwhile, at least three motorcyclists, including Upazila Assistant Agriculture Extension Officer Swruti Kumar Sinha, reportedly fell ill while waiting in the queue and were admitted to Upazila Health Complex.

Frustration has grown among consumers over the long waiting times and limited fuel distribution.

Authorities have acknowledged the shortage and said that supply constraints from the depot are responsible for the ongoing crisis.

MRM/SH