Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan has blamed a section of politicians and business associates for the ongoing energy crisis, saying, “Illegal gas connections to households and factories are one of the key causes of the energy shortage.”
Speaking at a policy discussion titled “Building a Sustainable LPG Economy: Addressing Environmental Impact and Ensuring Safety” at a hotel in Dhaka’s Karwan Bazar, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser said this on Saturday.
“In many places, lines were installed not for supply, but to facilitate corruption and siphon money. They knew gas couldn’t be provided, yet the work continued,” he mentioned.
He also noted that Bangladesh is being forced to import natural gas at higher prices, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) remains a comparatively cheaper and easier alternative.
Emphasising the need for collective action to make LPG more affordable, the adviser said, “Irresponsible business practices must end. We must work together to reduce LPG prices if we want industries to use it efficiently. We should also explore how LPG can be used in power generation.”
The discussion brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and development partners, who shared their insights on the challenges and opportunities in the country’s energy sector.
