All petrol pumps in North Bengal shut down indefinitely

The Bangladesh Petroleum Dealers, Distributors, Agents, and Petrol Pump Owners Association (Rajshahi Division) has announced the indefinite closure of all petrol pumps in North Bengal from 8:00 am on Wednesday (February 5). The decision comes in protest against the eviction drive carried out by the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) in Naogaon district without prior notice.

In a press release issued on Tuesday (February 4), signed by the General Secretary of the association’s Rajshahi division, Md Abdul Jalil, the announcement was made public.

The statement mentioned that on February 4, the Roads and Highways Department in Naogaon conducted an eviction drive suddenly, without any prior announcement, notice, or official letter. As a result, petrol pump owners are extremely frustrated and angry. "We strongly condemn and protest this unfair and unreasonable action," the statement read.

It further stated, "We have been running our businesses for a long time, following all government regulations and holding valid licenses. By regularly paying taxes, we contribute significantly to the national economy. Despite this, such an eviction drive has never taken place before, creating anxiety and dissatisfaction among us."

Regarding the incident, Md Abdul Jalil, General Secretary of the Rajshahi division, said, "At Hamim Pump, they removed the meter and aggressively dug up the drainage system, preventing vehicles from entering. Similarly, Anika Pump was also vandalized. Without any notice, they have essentially forced these pumps to shut down."

"If they can show any official document proving that we were given prior notice or time, we will accept it. But without informing us, they just made announcements over loudspeakers. While such announcements are common in other situations, we have never seen anything like this happen to petrol pumps before," he added.