Severe gas crisis grips Bangladesh

Bangladesh is facing one of the worst gas crises in its recent history, as supply shortages continue to deepen across residential, industrial, transport, and fertilizer sectors.

For many years the country has been grappling with a persistent decline in gas production, but the situation this winter has now escalated to an acute crisis.

According to media reports, with local output falling for nine consecutive years and imported LNG volumes shrinking due to financial constraints, gas supply has plummeted to just 60 percent of daily demand-triggering widespread distress for millions.

This severe gas crisis supply shortage has forced households in capital Dhaka to find innovative solutions, significantly affecting the daily life. Some opt to cook at late of might, while others brave thee freezing dawn to prepare meals. Meanwhile, a growing number are turning to electric stoves, LNG cylinders, or simply resorting to dinning at restaurants.

The shift to late night cooking is disrupting sleep patterns and increased reliance on restaurant meals is reportedly leading to various health concerns. And for postpaid gas users, the bills must be paid, even without gas supply, adding an extra layer of financial strain due to the need to purchase cylinder gas, electric stoves or kerosene stoves.

While gas shortages during winter are not uncommon in many parts of the city, this year’s situation has proven to be more prolonged, extending to previously unaffected areas.

According to data from the Energy and Mineral Resources Division and Petrobangla, Bangladesh currently requires around 4,200 million cubic feet (mmcfd) of gas per day. However, distribution companies are able to supply only 250-260 mmcfd. This leaves a staggering 40 percent deficit in daily supply-a gap experts describe as “crippling for both homes and industries.”

Besides Dhaka city, households in other major cities have reported cooking burners flickering throughout the day, while many factories, especially in key industrial belts, are running at half capacity or have shut down altogether.
Economists warn that the gas crisis will worsen inflation, strain supply chains, and undermine economic recovery. Production disruptions in industries such as textiles, steel, ceramics, glass, and chemicals will have ripple effects across the economy.

We urge the authorities to explore all viable options for acquiring additional gas supply. Furthermore, the entrenched corruption in the energy sector, including credible allegations that some suppliers demand bribes in exchange for gas connections, must be thoroughly investigated and eradicated.