Sylhet fuel pumps resume operations as strike suspended

‎Bangla Press Desk:   Owners of CNG, LPG and petrol pumps across Sylhet division have called off their indefinite strike, bringing an end to uncertainty triggered by the sudden halt in fuel supply.

Barrister Riasad Azim Haque Adnan, acting president of the Sylhet divisional committee of the Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Distributors, Agents and Petrol Pump Owners Association, disclosed the decision around 2:30am on Thursday.

He said they suspended the strike following discussions with the authorities concerned, but warned of fresh programmes if their demands are not met.

Earlier, around 11pm on Wednesday, pump owners suddenly stopped selling fuel and gas, alleging “extortion” in the name of fines by the administration.

The move sparked fears of a fuel crisis across Sylhet, causing anxiety among drivers and consumers.

In response, the administration and political leaders took immediate steps to tackle the situation. Around 1:30am on Thursday, an emergency meeting was held between pump owners, and officials and political leaders, including Sylhet city BNP General Secretary Imdad Ahmed Chowdhury and Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, at the Moglabazar Meghna Oil Depot in South Surma.

Sources said the strike was suspended following assurances that steps will be taken to meet the demands of the fuel pump owners.