AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Bangladesh has initiated a series of new measures to conserve energy, including reducing working hours and cutting public spending. These measures have been adopted with the aim of managing pressures related to fuel and electricity following the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran, an issue reported by Reuters, citing official sources.
Officials announced that these measures, approved by the Bangladeshi cabinet, are being implemented to support the stability of the country's energy sector—a nation that is highly dependent on fuel imports and, as a result, is facing increasing pressures due to price fluctuations and uncertainty in energy supply.
Under the new regulations, Bangladeshi government offices will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., while shops and shopping malls must close by 6:00 p.m. This measure is being carried out as part of a plan to reduce electricity consumption. Additionally, the Bangladeshi government has issued orders to cut unnecessary expenses and has called for reduced electricity consumption in the industrial sector and the imposition of restrictions on high-consumption lighting.
The Bangladeshi Ministry of Education is set to issue new directives for schools on Sunday, including changes to curricula and consideration of options such as online education. Bangladeshi authorities have also permitted the import of electric buses for schools with customs duty exemptions, and incentives have been considered for participation in this plan.
Bangladeshi authorities are striving to ensure energy supply for the country's population while seeking alternative sources amid volatile global markets. Bangladesh is also attempting to secure over $2.5 billion in external financing to cover the costs of fuel and liquefied natural gas imports, as the country's foreign exchange reserves remain under pressure.
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