2026.04.0305:40:41UTC+00Bangladesh Acts to Contain Energy Crunch

Bangladesh has rolled out a series of new measures to reduce energy consumption and ease pressure on its power system, as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global fuel markets. Approved by the cabinet on Thursday, the plan shortens government office hours to 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and requires markets and shopping centers to close by 6 p.m. in an effort to lower electricity demand. Authorities have also ordered cuts in non-essential public spending and urged industries to curb power use, including limiting excessive lighting. To support more efficient transport, the government will permit duty-free imports of electric school buses and provide incentives to encourage their adoption. In Dhaka, officials have already begun rationing fuel, restricting vehicle sales, and shortening fuel station operating hours to manage shortages triggered by panic buying, hoarding, and long queues.