Fuel shortage in Bandarban sparks tension between locals, biker tourists
The situation has been worsened by a surge in tourists travelling by motorbike during Eid holidays as an estimated 1,000 and 1,500 biker tourists arrive in the district each day
ATT Correspondent 
A severe shortage of octane fuel in Bandarban district has led to growing frustration among local residents and visiting tourists, with tensions emerging over the increasing influx of biker travellers during the peak holiday season.
Long queues at fuel stations have become a common sight as limited supplies fail to meet rising demand, reports Jagonews24.com.
Local residents say the shortage has significantly disrupted daily commuting and essential activities, particularly in a region where motorcycles are a primary mode of transport.
The situation has been worsened by a surge in tourists travelling by motorbike during Eid-ul-Fitr holidays and extended government breaks. Local sources estimate that between 1,000 and 1,500 biker tourists arrive in the district each day, adding considerable pressure on already strained fuel supplies.
Residents claim that tourists are consuming a disproportionate share of the available fuel, leaving insufficient octane for locals. This has triggered dissatisfaction among the community, many of whom depend on fuel for work, transport, and basic mobility.
“Tourism is beneficial, but the current fuel shortage has made biker tourists seem like a burden to locals,” said a resident, highlighting the growing concerns among the community.
Tourists, however, report facing difficulties of their own. Many say they are stranded mid-journey due to fuel shortages, forcing them to alter travel plans and incur additional expenses. The lack of reliable fuel availability has disrupted scheduled trips across popular destinations in the hilly district.
Local tourism operators have also expressed concern. A former official of a local tourism association noted that fuel shortages have prevented boat engines from operating in key tourist spots such as Thanchi, Tindu, and Raja Pathar, leading to a decline in visitor movement and revenue during what is typically a busy season.
Fuel station operators say supply constraints from distributors have limited their ability to meet demand. Some stations have reportedly rationed fuel, providing small fixed amounts per vehicle in an effort to manage the shortage.
Bandarban’s Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini said that the district has seen an unusual rise in fuel demand due to increased tourist arrivals, particularly motorbike travellers.
Authorities have deployed police at fuel stations to maintain order and ensure fair distribution.
Rini added that the government has already been informed about the situation and has requested an increased allocation of octane for the district. In the meantime, officials have advised discouraging large-scale biker tourism due to the ongoing nationwide fuel supply constraints.
