CAB criticises looming power tariff hike

The Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB), Kishoreganj district committee, has strongly criticised the recent proposal to hike electricity tariffs, warning that ordinary citizens should not bear the financial burden of inefficiencies in the power sector and accumulated deficits.

CAB district committee President Alam Sarowar Tito, Executive President Advocate Maya Bhowmick, General Secretary Monowar Hossain Rony.

Joint Secretary Sadek Ahmed and Treasurer Md Asaduzzaman jointly stated that the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) would become “an enemy of the people” if electricity prices are increased.

They said that while it is repeatedly argued in favour of tariff hikes that the government should provide subsidies, in reality the government provides subsidies using public money.

The consumer rights body CAB presented a six-point recommendation on Thursday during a public hearing organised by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC).

They said the general public is already under severe economic pressure due to high inflation, rising prices of essential commodities, increased fuel costs and the overall rise in living expenses. At this point, any further increase in electricity prices would worsen the financial burden on households and further fuel inflation.

CAB district president said the BERC should address inefficiencies in the power and energy sector, including system losses, lack of transparency, delayed projects, excessive expenditure and the burden of capacity payments.