The Chuadanga district administration has distributed around 20,000 fuel cards as part of measures to regulate fuel supply and ease public pressure following concerns over a possible oil shortage.

The initiative comes after a surge in customers at petrol stations across the district, where long queues formed amid rumours of fuel scarcity. To address the situation, the district administration introduced a fuel card system to ensure orderly distribution.

Initially launched at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on March 30, the programme was later expanded to all upazilas from March 31 due to overcrowding and public inconvenience.

Distribution is now being carried out at four upazila parishad offices, where applicants are required to submit necessary vehicle documents. Despite long queues, many recipients reported relief after receiving their fuel cards.

Officials said more than 20,000 applications were submitted, and an equal number of cards have already been issued. A total of 35,000 cards have been printed, with further distribution planned if required.

To reduce public inconvenience, the authorities have extended the distribution period by two additional days. The system is also set to expand further, with fuel distribution through card verification scheduled to begin at 22 petrol pumps across the district from Wednesday, April 1.

Chuadanga Additional District Magistrate BM Tariq Uz Zaman said efforts are underway to bring all vehicle owners and drivers under the system.

Around 12,000 cards are expected to be distributed across the district on the same day, he said, adding that the fuel card system will streamline distribution, reduce congestion at fuel stations, and ensure a more efficient supply chain.