Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud and State Minister Anindya Islam Amit met senior officials of the Rural Electrification Board (REB) and 80 Palli Bidyut Samities (PBS) on 4 May at the REB headquarters to review distribution challenges and set reform priorities, the board said in a press.
The exchange meeting, chaired by REB Chairman Major General SM Zia-ul-Azim ndc afwc psc, brought together head office and field-level officials, including Senior General Managers and General Managers, to assess ongoing rural electricity operations and identify ways to modernise the system.
REB briefed the ministers on the overall status of its rural power distribution network, while participants outlined key concerns such as proportional load shedding, reducing system loss, recovery of outstanding dues, modernisation of infrastructure, and coordination with other agencies.
Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud MP said the REB, founded in 1977 under an ordinance by martyred President Ziaur Rahman, remains the most successful institution under the Power Division.
He said the creation of REB was a landmark move that supported agricultural expansion, canal excavation programmes, and broader rural economic development.
He added the rural electrification model implemented by REB has proven highly effective and should not be subjected to further experimentation.
He instructed Senior General Managers and General Managers of PBS to strengthen relationships with customers and directed underperforming PBS entities to move towards profitability.
State Minister Anindya Islam Amit MP said REB stands out as a unique institution that operates without direct government subsidies, relying instead on cross-subsidy mechanisms.
He said ensuring satisfaction of lifeline customers must remain a priority and urged officials to enhance service delivery, maintain close engagement with consumers, and clearly communicate the causes of load shedding and other electricity-related issues.
In his closing remarks, REB Chairman Major General SM Zia-ul-Azim ndc afwc psc reaffirmed commitment to advancing rural electrification through coordinated efforts between REB and PBS officials to meet government expectations.
