No IMF pressure behind fuel price hike: Transport Minister

Road transport, rail and waterways minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has said the recent increase in fuel prices was a domestic policy decision, dismissing any role of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the move.

Speaking at the inauguration of the BIWTA Annual Sports Competition-2026 in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur on Saturday (April 25), the minister said the government had long sustained fuel subsidies but was eventually compelled to adjust prices due to mounting fiscal pressure and the need to curb smuggling.

“The decision was taken considering public interest and overall economic realities,” he said, adding that subsidy burdens had become unsustainable.

Following the price hike, bus and minibus fares have been revised upward, with authorities increasing rates by 11 paisa per kilometre from April 23.

The minister, however, assured that fares would be reduced automatically if fuel prices decline, with a formal notification to be issued by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority.

He also clarified that fares for gas-run vehicles remain unchanged, warning that any unauthorized increase would trigger action.

Addressing traffic management in the capital, the minister said the government is planning to gradually restrict autorickshaw movement on major roads to restore discipline, with discussions ongoing among stakeholders.

The latest fuel prices, effective from April 19, set diesel at Tk 115 per litre, octane at Tk 140, petrol at Tk 135 and kerosene at Tk 130, reflecting adjustments amid volatility in global energy markets.