Bangladesh’s first oil-carrying pipeline is set to begin operations next week, marking a significant step in modernising the country’s fuel distribution system.

Officials from the state-run Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) confirmed that pre-commissioning work has already begun on the 246-kilometre underground pipeline linking Chattogram’s Patenga area with Godnail and Fatullah in Narayanganj.

BPC Chairman Md Amin Ul Ahsan said the pipeline is expected to be formally commissioned on May 13, with the power and energy adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan scheduled to inaugurate the operation. The project aims to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks in fuel transportation.

Built at a revised cost of Tk 36.98 billion, the pipeline will initially transport diesel, with petrol and octane to follow in later phases. It is projected to cut annual fuel transport costs by Tk 2.36 billion and reduce delivery time to end users. The infrastructure also aims to ease reliance on tankers, barges, and lorries, which currently handle nearly all fuel distribution from Chattogram.

With a capacity of 5.4 million tonnes annually, the pipeline will operate at half capacity initially, meeting Dhaka and the surrounding areas’ demand of 2.7 million tonnes per year. The project, implemented by the Bangladesh Army’s 24th Engineer Construction Brigade, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.

Once fully operational, the pipeline is expected to improve fuel security and reduce pilferage while supporting growing energy demands.