Long queues at CNG stations amid gas crisis, drivers wait for hours

Drivers are having to wait for long hours to refuel at CNG stations in the capital due to the ongoing gas crisis. Long queues of vehicles were seen at various stations on Saturday. Drivers are facing severe hardship as they stand in line for hours without getting the required amount of gas.

Visits to CNG filling stations across Dhaka showed the queues growing from the morning. Many drivers have to wait for hours. Low gas pressure means stations are unable to supply the usual quantity of fuel, station staff said.

Even after waiting for long periods, drivers are losing time and income. Spending hours waiting at stations wastes a significant part of their day, meaning they cannot earn their usual income from carrying passengers.

Nazrul Islam, a driver, said he has been facing extra hardship every day since the gas crisis began. On Saturday, he had to wait about five hours before refuelling. He said the long waiting time wastes his day and reduces his income as he can carry fewer passengers.

Drivers have said the situation will worsen if not resolved quickly. CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers as well as drivers of other gas-dependent vehicles are facing difficulties accessing fuel. The long queues at stations are also adding to traffic congestion on the roads.

CNG station operators said they are also facing business losses due to the gas crisis. Without sufficient gas, they cannot provide normal services. They are also struggling to manage the frustration and chaos created by drivers waiting for long periods. The hardship is expected to continue until the situation normalises.