In response to the edible oil crisis during the holy month of Ramadan, Narayanganj Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam has initiated a special truck sale program with the cooperation of leading edible oil suppliers, Meghna Group and City Group. The initiative, aimed at ensuring the availability of essential goods at discounted prices, was inaugurated on Thursday (March 6) at the Narayanganj DC office premises. Alongside edible oil, the program also offers discounted prices for rice, lentils, sugar, and other daily necessities.

DC Zahidul Islam stated, "On March 3, we held a meeting with edible oil factory owners and traders, urging them to start truck sales to address the crisis. Meghna Group has already been selling over 2 tons of oil daily, and City Group has joined the initiative today. We hope this will alleviate the edible oil shortage in the market."

He emphasized that Narayanganj, being a hub for essential goods distribution to 42 districts across Bangladesh, plays a critical role in maintaining supply chains. "I held discussions with wholesalers on February 26, who requested my intervention to ensure a steady supply of edible oil. They assured me of their support in maintaining the supply of other essential goods. On March 3, I met with edible oil producers and suppliers to address the issue," he added.

The DC warned against any attempts to exploit consumers during Ramadan, stating, "The syndicate's reach may be long, but the government's reach is even longer. I urged edible oil producers to respond to my call, and they have started selling products at discounted prices at three locations today. Consumers can purchase a limited quantity per person."

He further highlighted the importance of private producers collaborating with the government to ensure affordable access to essential goods. "If private producers across the country join such initiatives, we can all celebrate Ramadan without hardship," he said.

Meghna Group's GM, Sarkar Farhad Ahmed, confirmed their commitment to the initiative, stating, "We will continue truck sales throughout Ramadan, offering 2 tons and 12 kilograms of edible oil daily. We will follow the DC's instructions to serve the public interest."

City Group's Regional Sales Manager, Md. Saiful Arefin, added, "We started our truck sales today from Khanpur. Each area will have two days of sales, and we will continue this throughout Ramadan, offering edible oil and other essentials at discounted prices. City Group is proud to respond to the DC's humanitarian appeal."

Local sources indicate that the absence of contributions from the S. Alam Group this year has created a significant gap in the supply of essential goods, putting pressure on other suppliers to meet the demand.

The initiative has been welcomed by local residents, who hope it will stabilize prices and ensure the availability of essential goods during the holy month.