The government on Wednesday asked the people to show austerity in the use of electricity and fuel by avoiding all types of decorative lighting and reducing the use of personal vehicles amid energy supply uncertainty.

The government adopted a series of precautionary measures to save energy amid fears of possible supply disruptions stemming from ongoing instability in the Middle East.

The decisions were taken at an emergency review meeting chaired by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud at his ministry, according to a PID handout.

At the meeting, it was informed that global energy supply chains have been affected due to the continuing unrest in the Middle East, creating uncertainty over the timely import of desired amount of fuel from potential sources. So, temporary disruptions or adjustments in domestic fuel supply may be required to meet current demand.

The meeting was informed that the situation could lead to a slight reduction in electricity generation and fertiliser production.

However, the government has taken maximum precautionary measures to ensure that people wouldn’t suffer during the holy month of Ramadan.

To address the possible short-term energy constraints, the government sought the cooperation of the people and requested them to practice austerity in the use of electricity and energy.

The government has directed the avoidance of all types of decorative lighting and requested people to reduce the use of personal vehicles.

Besides, the law enforcement agencies have been asked to remain vigilant to ensure that diesel and petrol are not sold in the open market, while the district administration, police and BGB have been directed to take necessary steps to prevent fuel smuggling.

The ministry said it has already undertaken all possible measures to minimise the negative impact of the global situation. Initiatives have been taken to continue fuel procurement from all available sources to maintain a stable supply.

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The government has called upon the people to remain patient and extend full cooperation to ensure the success of its efforts in tackling any temporary crisis.

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit, the secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, the chairman of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and the chairman of Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) were present at the meeting.