Frequent load shedding and intense heat have disrupted daily life in Khulna, pushing demand for alternative power solutions and driving sharp price increases for charger fans, UPS systems and lights.
Irregular electricity supply has forced households and businesses to rely on backup options, with prices of charger lights rising by Tk100 to Tk300 and charger fans and UPS batteries increasing significantly.
In recent days, prolonged outages left many areas without adequate power, with load shedding lasting eight to 10 hours within a 24-hour period, severely affecting routine activities.
Although outages have eased slightly, the oppressive heat continues to strain residents.
The surge in demand has led to crowded electronics markets, where buyers are turning to charger fans as substitutes for electric fans.
Market sources said prices of small and large charger fans have increased by Tk800 to Tk1,200 this year.
A 12-inch charger fan that sold for Tk2,500 last year is now priced between Tk3,300 and Tk3,500.
Boni Electric staff member Md Rajib said demand has risen sharply due to increased load shedding, but supply remains limited.
“Where demand is for 50,000 units, only around 2,000 units are available, and higher import prices are affecting the retail market,” said the shop employee.
Bismillah Enterprise owner Md Sagar Kazi said rising dollar rates and import costs from China have increased product prices.
He said multiple layers of distribution are also adding to the cost.
A trader at Rob Shopping Complex alleged that some Dhaka-based businesses are manipulating the market by raising prices through syndicates.
He said the current level of demand is unprecedented.
Harun Electronics owner Md Jahangir Alam said sales of charger fans have nearly doubled over the past week, making it difficult to maintain sufficient stock.
Consumers said some traders are taking advantage of the situation by charging higher prices.
“It is hard to cope with the heat, so I had to buy a fan, but the price is very high,” said buyer Jhumur Begum.
Rupsha resident SM Mahbubur Rahman said load shedding occurs almost every hour, making conditions unbearable.
“There are more buyers than products, so shopkeepers are charging more,” he said.
Frequent outages and persistent heat have left residents facing severe hardship, while rising costs of alternative devices are adding to the financial pressure.
