Bangladesh has introduced a series of strict energy-saving measures, including reduced office hours and a ban on decorative wedding lighting, as the country moves to conserve fuel amid rising global energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict.
The government said the country, which relies on imports for around 95 per cent of its oil and gas needs, is taking precautionary steps to stabilise supply lines that it described as “unsecured”.
Authorities confirmed that government and private offices, as well as banks, will now close earlier each day starting Friday until further notice.
Under the revised schedule, offices will operate from 9am to 4pm, while banks will close at 3pm, according to senior government secretary Nasimul Gani.
Shopping malls have also been ordered to shut by 6pm, although essential grocery outlets will continue normal operations.
The new restrictions extend to social events, with decorative lighting at weddings now prohibited following earlier limits imposed on commercial centres.
Weddings in Bangladesh are typically large-scale celebrations involving elaborate decorations and significant electricity use, often affecting entire neighbourhoods.
In addition to public restrictions, the government has instructed departments to cut back on non-essential spending, including vehicle and computer purchases, as well as hospitality budgets for official events.
Foreign training programmes for government officials have been suspended, while local training sessions will be reduced by half.
Officials estimate the combined measures could reduce fuel consumption by at least 30 per cent.
The government is also considering changes to school transport systems, including the potential introduction of electric buses.
Bangladesh is currently seeking around US$2 billion in loans from international lenders to help manage its energy challenges.
Alongside the new restrictions, authorities have already limited fuel purchases, halted production at most fertiliser plants, and increased enforcement at petrol stations amid shortages and rising demand.
Officials said thousands of inspections have been carried out recently, leading to the seizure of large quantities of illegally obtained fuel.
