BAHARAM KHAN

While the fuel allocation for all government vehicles -- including those used by the prime minister and cabinet members -- has been slashed by 30 percent amid the ongoing energy crisis, fuel for the private cars of senior officials remains exempt from these cuts.

As such, the government treasury continues to cover the full cost of fuel and maintenance for these private vehicles.

Following the economic pressures triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran, the cabinet on April 2 decided on a policy of austerity. The Finance Division subsequently urged cost-cutting across various sectors. Following this, the Cabinet Division issued a directive on April 9, instructing all ministries to implement savings in eight specific areas.

However, the decision to exclude the fuel allowance for senior officials’ personal cars from this list has raised serious questions regarding the fairness and effectiveness of the government’s austerity measures.

Officers holding the rank of deputy secretary and above in the administration, armed forces, and judiciary are eligible for interest-free car loans. Additionally, these officers receive Tk 50,000 monthly for fuel and maintenance costs.

According to sources from the Ministry of Public Administration, approximately 11,000 officers currently enjoy this facility.

When approached for comment, at least three officials from the Cabinet Division failed to provide a clear explanation for the exclusion of this sector from the recent austerity drive.

One official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “The fuel allowance for cars purchased under interest-free loans is not included in the current austerity measures. However, the purchase of new cars under this facility will be temporarily suspended.”

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