Bangladesh orders early university closure to curb electricity use amid energy crunch

DHAKA: Bangladesh has ordered all universities to close from Monday, advancing the upcoming Eidul Fitr holidays in a bid to reduce electricity consumption and fuel use as the country grapples with a worsening energy shortage.

Officials said the directive applies to both public and private universities across the country. Authorities believe the temporary shutdown will cut power demand on campuses, where large amounts of electricity are used for dormitories, classrooms, laboratories and air conditioning — while also reducing traffic that contributes to fuel consumption.

Most government and private schools in Bangladesh are already closed for the holy month of Ramadan, meaning educational institutions across much of the country will now remain shut during the period.

The decision comes as Dhaka faces growing uncertainty over fuel and gas supplies following disruptions in global energy markets linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Bangladesh depends heavily on imported energy, meeting roughly 95 per cent of its requirements through imports.

To manage the situation, the government last week introduced daily limits on fuel sales after panic buying and stockpiling were reported.

Authorities have also asked schools following foreign curricula and private coaching centres to suspend classes temporarily to help lower electricity demand.

Meanwhile, severe gas shortages have already forced the shutdown of four out of five state-run fertiliser plants, with available gas supplies being diverted to power generation in an effort to prevent widespread outages.

Bangladesh has also turned to the spot market to secure liquefied natural gas cargoes at significantly higher prices while searching for additional supplies to cover the shortfall.

“We are taking all possible steps to reduce consumption and maintain stability in power, fuel and import supplies,” a senior energy ministry official said.