Petrol pump and tanker lorry owners across Bangladesh have gone on strike, demanding a 7% commission on fuel sales along with nine other points. The strike, called by the Bangladesh Petrol Pump and Tank Lorry Owners Unity Council, began on Sunday (May 25) from 6:00 AM and will continue until 2:00 PM.

During this period, all fuel pumps remain closed, and fuel extraction and transportation from depots have been suspended. The association warned that a more severe movement will follow if their demands are not met.

The strike has already started to affect transportation across the country, causing concern among commuters and the general public.

Key demands of the petrol pump owners include:

• Setting the fuel sales commission rate at 7%
• Maintaining the previous rates of lease fees by the Roads and Highways Department
• Recognizing pay orders as valid during lease renewal for pump access roads
• Abolishing BSTI fees for underground tank calibration, dip rod testing, and registration
• Eliminating the licensing requirements from the Department of Environment, BERC, Factory Inspection, and Fire Service
• Halting direct fuel sales from marketing companies without dealership
• Resolving licensing issues for tanker drivers and granting inter-district route permits
• Stopping unauthorized fuel sales in open spaces or households

The strike organizers claim that years of unaddressed grievances have left them no option but to take this course of action.