JS body shocked by Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation irregularities, audit objections

The Parliamentary Committee on Public Undertakings today (August 23, 2022) said they are "shocked" by the widespread irregularities and audit objections in state-run Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC).

The parliamentary watchdog came up with the statement while holding discussion on various activities of BPC including purchases.

"There is little transparency and accountability in BPC. We are shocked at seeing the gravity of widespread  irregularities (in BPC)," ASM Feroz, chief of the parliamentary body said emerging from the meeting at Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka.

He also said, "There are irregularities in the purchase of BPC. There are also audit objections. These objections were not properly disposed of. They did not listen to the Anti-Corruption Commission, either."

However, regarding the irregularities, BPC said, "Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation is being properly managed within the institutional framework. As a result there is no scope for institutional mismanagement and irregularities in BPC."

FUEL PRICE WILL BE ADJUSTED SOON

The parliamentary committee also recommended the concerned ministry to adjust fuel prices in line with the international market. 

In response to the recommendation of adjustment of fuel price, top officials of power, energy and mineral resources ministry informed the House watchdog that price adjustment of fuel will be done as soon as possible in line with the price in international market.

The committee also recommended for quick introduction of automation system in fuel operation in Bangladesh like in many developed countries of the world.

It also asked the ministry to take necessary measures to increase the reserve capacity of refined and crude oil of BPC and to keep adequate funds in case of emergencies.