Bangladesh Introduces Shorter Work Week To Conserve Energy Supplies

[Abdulwahid]

Bangladesh has started a shorter working week as part of new austerity measures to reduce energy consumption, following strains on the nation's power supply caused by the US-Israeli war on Iran. The measures began on Sunday, affecting both public and private sector offices as well as banking services.

The country, home to about 170 million people, relies on imports for 95 percent of its energy needs and is vulnerable to disruptions in global energy markets. The recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz has prevented crude oil imports from the Middle East for over a month and a half, prompting the government to act quickly to save fuel.

Office hours have been shortened to 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., while banking services will operate from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The government has also ordered reduced power use in marketplaces and encouraged limited lighting in public and private spaces. Citizens have been urged to prioritize essential energy use and pause non-essential activities.

Energy Joint Secretary Monir Hossain Chowdhury emphasized the need for collective effort, stating, "To save fuel, we should focus only on basic and urgent needs. Every citizen must support this initiative. If one light is enough, why switch on five?" While there are no fixed penalties for non-compliance, the Ministry of Home Affairs will monitor implementation and take necessary steps.

Additional measures for factories and industrial units are expected soon, while the Ministry of Education will announce new rules for schools. Markets and shopping centers are now required to close by 7 p.m., although some relaxations are planned for the Bengali New Year on April 14 and upcoming Eid celebrations.

Shop owners have expressed support but warned that fines may be applied if rules are not followed. Mohammad Helal Uddin, president of the Shop Owners Association, said, "This crisis affects agriculture, transport, electricity, and more. We must all participate in these austerity measures, just as we did during the COVID-19 period, to ensure the nation can manage its energy effectively."

Source: