Dhaka: The government of Bangladesh has ordered all universities to close from Monday, advancing the Eid al-Fitr holidays as part of emergency steps aimed at reducing electricity and fuel consumption during a deepening energy shortage.
Officials said the directive applies to both public and private universities across the country. Authorities expect the measure to cut power usage on campuses while also easing traffic congestion, which contributes to additional fuel consumption.
University complexes require significant electricity for hostels, classrooms, laboratories and air-conditioning systems. By suspending operations early, the government hopes to reduce the strain on the national power grid.
Most schools in the country are already closed for Ramadan, meaning the majority of educational institutions will remain shut during the period.
The decision comes as Bangladesh faces uncertainty over fuel and gas availability following disruptions in global energy markets linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The country imports about 95 percent of its energy needs, making it particularly vulnerable to supply shocks. Authorities recently imposed daily limits on fuel sales after reports of panic buying and stockpiling.
As part of broader austerity measures, the government has also asked foreign-curriculum schools and private coaching centres to suspend classes temporarily to limit electricity usage.
Severe gas shortages have already forced the closure of four out of five state-run fertiliser plants, with available gas supplies diverted to power stations in an effort to prevent widespread outages.
Bangladesh has also turned to the spot market to purchase liquefied natural gas at significantly higher prices while seeking additional shipments to bridge supply gaps.
A senior official from the energy ministry said the government is taking multiple steps to curb consumption and maintain stability in electricity generation, fuel availability and imports as the crisis continues.