Fuel prices in Bangladesh low even after the hike: Rizvi
BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi at a press conference at the central office. Photo: Captured from video.
Even after raising fuel prices by Tk 20, the price in Bangladesh remains lower compared to other countries around the world, claimed BNP Acting Secretary General and Political Advisor to the Prime Minister, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.
According to him, the government had to adjust prices considering the price and supply situation of fuel oil in the international market. However, even after the price adjustment, the government continues to incur a loss per liter.
He made these remarks today, Monday, during a briefing following a joint meeting of the party at BNP's central office in Naya Paltan, Dhaka.
The Acting Secretary General said that the global energy crisis is becoming more complex due to the conflict involving the Middle East, the United States, Israel, and Iran. Fuel oil tankers navigate through the Strait of Hormuz, causing the conflict in that region to impact fuel supplies as well.
Loss of Tk 70 per Liter Even After Tk 20 Increase
Total fuel oil consumption in the country is around 7 million metric tons, of which diesel accounts for nearly 4.5 million metric tons. Previously, diesel was sold at Tk 115 per liter, while the government had to purchase it at around Tk 250 per liter, resulting in a loss of nearly Tk 90 per liter. Even after the Tk 20 price adjustment, a loss of around Tk 70 per liter will still be incurred, claimed the Political Advisor to the Prime Minister.
The top BNP leader pointed out that the price of diesel in Bangladesh was previously Tk 115, whereas in India, it was slightly over Tk 134. As a result, concerns arose regarding the smuggling of diesel out of Bangladesh.
He added that to cope with the energy crisis, the government is attempting to ensure supply to the national grid by importing gas and fuel from various countries, which is gradually improving the supply situation of electricity and gas.
The BNP Acting Secretary General claimed that attempts are being made to confuse the public through various misinformations and parodies mocking the steps taken by the government in the public interest. He urged the public to judge and analyze everything before reaching their own conclusions.
"The government is working to advance the trend of production and development through various programs, including social protection, family cards, farmer cards, and canal digging. Efforts are also underway to achieve self-sufficiency in food, address the climate crisis, and implement the initiative to plant 250 million trees as declared in BNP's election manifesto," noted Rizvi.
Warning of Taking to the Streets Against Government Propaganda
Rizvi also alleged that agents of fascism and undemocratic forces within the administration are attempting to create chaos. According to him, the government will identify and take action against them. Several steps have already been taken, and this process will continue.
Rizvi announced that the BNP, along with its affiliate organizations and various professional groups, will launch programs to protest against propaganda and attempts to smear the government. Programs including rallies, processions, and human chains will also be organized against planned terrorism and instability.
"Smallest Delegation in History to the UN Session"
Referring to the 35-member delegation led by the Prime Minister to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Rizvi stated that this is the smallest delegation in the country's history. This reflects efforts to sustain and further enrich the nation's economy.
He mentioned that in the past, foreign trips were accompanied by lavish receptions and honor ceremonies organized at immense expense. This time, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed not to arrange any such events. He also commented that the expenses for those past arrangements were drawn from public funds.
Rizvi added that these steps by the government reflect a commitment to prioritizing public interest. At the same time, despite various propaganda campaigns launched against the government, the public will analyze and judge everything to make their own decisions.
