Asifur Rahman

Bangladesh’s energy security has once again shown its vulnerability amid the ongoing Middle East war, echoing challenges faced during the 2020 Russia-Ukraine conflict, as it relies heavily on timely fuel imports while maintaining only a short-term stock buffer.

Many filling stations across Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Chattogram, and Rajshahi, ran dry yesterday as panic buying continued for a second day amid fears of supply disruption due to the war in the Middle East.

Energy minister assures people of adequate stock, supply

Filling stations across the country, including in Dhaka and Chattogram, were overcrowded on the weekend as panic buying continued amid fears of supply disruptions due to the war in the Middle East.

Narvin Begum, a day labourer supporting a four-member family, uses LPG for quick morning cooking and firewood for other meals.

Bangladesh yesterday secured two LNG cargoes from the international spot market after failing to attract bidders for two consecutive days, although at more than double the normal rate.

The government is preparing to conserve energy and possibly introduce power cuts and rationing as global fuel supplies remain under stress due to the ongoing Middle East war.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran amid its escalating war with the US and Israel has raised fresh concerns over liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies to Bangladesh, which relies heavily on the narrow maritime corridor for its energy imports.