Long queues of motorcycles formed at filling stations in Rajshahi on Tuesday evening after rumours of a fuel shortage spread on social media. Officials, however, said supplies were ample and distribution was normal.

The rush began after 8 pm, with motorcycles lining up at several stations across the city and some riders bringing jerry cans. The Rajshahi district administration and the local filling station owners’ association confirmed there was no fuel crisis, and journalists visiting the stations found fuel supply was uninterrupted. The sudden increase in demand led to long queues at some stations.

Riders in the queues said they had seen numerous posts on social media claiming a shortage was imminent, often accompanied by photographs of filling stations, prompting them to buy extra fuel for fear of being unable to obtain it later. Many people at the pumps said the sight of the queues encouraged others to buy more fuel than they needed.

The district administration issued a public notice on social media urging residents not to stockpile. “Everyone is specially requested not to purchase or hoard extra fuel based on any rumour or misleading information,” it said, adding that Rajshahi had adequate stocks and supply was normal.

Authorities warned that legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to create an artificial crisis, raise prices unjustifiably or hoard supplies.

Officials reiterated that supplies remained steady and said the market was being monitored in coordination with relevant departments.