TE24 Bangladesh Desk:
Load shedding will occur for one hour between 5pm and 11pm daily during the next one week in every areas across the country, said State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid.
In a briefing at the Secretariat on Monday afternoon, he told the media that after a week of monitoring, the load limit may increase or decrease from next week.
“Closing diesel-powered power plants and shutting petrol pumps for one day every week will reduce fuel imports by 20%,” he said.
It has also been decided to close the gas station for one day in a week to deal with the ongoing power and fuel crisis. Meanwhile, Executive Minister Farhad Hossain said the government is planning to reduce business hours and introduce virtual offices to save electricity.
Prime Minister’s Energy Adviser, Sheikh Hasina, Tawfiq E Irahi Chowdhury told the media: The power generating plants using diesel will be shut down today (July 18). ..
“This creates a power shortfall of 1,000-1,500 MW. There will be 1-2 hours of load shedding per day depending on the area.” Comparing the current crisis to a “war-like situation”, he said, “Shops have to close at 8 pm.
“Strict action will be taken against those who violate these guidelines. Use of air conditioners in mosques is prohibited. Government working hours will be shortened and meetings will be held online.”
Energy and Natural Resources Minister Nasrul Hamid said: Measures have been taken to reduce fuel consumption of vehicles.
“These measures taken by the Russia-Ukraine war are not long-term. It must be cost-effective. When it comes to power supply, industry and commerce are at the forefront. The decision will take effect tomorrow.
Along with other parts of the country, Dhaka is also preparing for frequent power outages. The average daily power generation is 2,000
