Panic buying makes situation difficult, energy minister tells JS

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud has said that although the government is trying to maintain stability amid the global energy crisis, it would be difficult to control the situation if people resort to “panic buying”. 

He also urged citizens to purchase only what they actually need.

He made these remarks on Thursday (April 2) during the question-and-answer session on the seventh day of the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed.

Responding to a supplementary question from Patuakhali-2 MP Dr. Shafiqul Islam Masud, the minister described the current energy situation as a global problem. He said that it is now a major issue worldwide, but Bangladesh is still trying to manage it effectively. However, if panic buying emerges among people, it will be difficult to contain.

“We are requesting people to buy only what they need. If this is followed, there will be no problem regarding fuel,” he added.

Earlier, in his supplementary question, Dr. Masud raised concerns about Members of Parliament facing difficulties and even humiliation while trying to procure fuel. He also alleged irregularities by dealers in his constituency, claiming that they were secretly selling fuel from their homes instead of through official outlets.

He said, “Just yesterday, we saw a respected MP being somewhat humiliated while trying to collect fuel. Earlier, another MP faced a crisis after failing to get fuel. As local representatives, we receive at least 30 to 40 calls a day. In my area, Bauphal, there is no petrol pump, and dealers are manipulating the situation. They close their shops and sell fuel from their homes. When magistrates go there, they cannot find anyone.”

Contradicting the minister’s earlier statement, the MP further said that the situation in his area does not match the government’s claims. He added that commercial centers are being instructed to close by 8 PM, and asked what steps the ministry is taking to address the worsening fuel crisis in Bauphal.

In response, Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud said that the government is supplying fuel according to available reserves and the daily allocation for each area. Referring to the MP’s own remarks, he said that if dealers are deliberately evading responsibility, local law enforcement agencies can be informed to take action and ensure proper fuel supply.

Regarding the directive to close shops after 8 PM, the minister said that countries around the world are adopting energy-saving measures, and Bangladesh is no exception. “We are requesting the public to be economical. We hope people will cooperate,” he said.