The government on Wednesday urged people to exercise austerity in electricity and fuel use by avoiding all types of decorative lighting and reducing the use of personal vehicles amid energy supply uncertainty.
The measures were adopted to save energy amid fears of potential supply disruptions caused by ongoing instability in the Middle East.
The decisions came during an emergency review meeting chaired by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmood at his ministry, according to a PID handout.
Officials at the meeting said global energy supply chains have been affected by continuing unrest in the Middle East, creating uncertainty over the timely import of the required amount of fuel. Temporary disruptions or adjustments in domestic fuel supply may be necessary to meet current demand.
The situation could lead to a slight reduction in electricity generation and fertilizer production, the meeting was told.
However, the government said it has taken maximum precautionary measures to ensure people would not face difficulties during the holy month of Ramadan.
To address possible short-term energy constraints, the government requested public cooperation and called on citizens to practice austerity in electricity and energy use.
Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant to prevent diesel and petrol sales in the open market, while district administrations, police, and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been directed to take necessary measures against fuel smuggling.
The ministry said it has undertaken all possible measures to minimize the negative impact of the global situation, including continuing fuel procurement from all available sources to maintain a stable supply.
The government called on the public to remain patient and extend full cooperation to ensure the success of its efforts in managing any temporary crisis.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit, the secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, and the chairmen of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) attended the meeting.
