Power and Fuel Crisis Paralyzes Daily Life in Haluaghat

A severe power outage and fuel shortage have added to long-standing infrastructural weaknesses in Haluaghat, a border upazila in Mymensingh, leaving daily life nearly paralyzed.

Picture: A.H Tanim

According to local residents, despite changes in government since independence, there has been little visible improvement in the region’s development. Problems in roads, education, and electricity systems have persisted for years and have now become more acute.

The upazila currently requires around 35 megawatts of electricity, but only about 6.6 megawatts is being supplied. As a result, frequent power cuts continue throughout the day and night, severely disrupting businesses, educational institutions, and everyday activities.

At the same time, the fuel shortage has further complicated the situation. Only a limited amount of fuel is being supplied once a week at two local fuel stations, where each person is allowed to purchase fuel worth a maximum of BDT 200. This has created serious difficulties, especially for transport workers and professionals who rely on regular travel.

A local professional said that he needs to travel long distances daily, but the limited fuel supply makes it impossible, affecting both his work and income.

Residents say that although assurances have been given repeatedly, no effective solution has been implemented. Without increasing electricity generation and supply, improving alternative energy systems, and normalizing fuel distribution, the situation may worsen further.

Concerned citizens believe that this neglected border region requires urgent and focused attention. Otherwise, the ongoing power and fuel crisis could have long-term negative impacts on both the local economy and daily life in Haluaghat.

Source: Daily Inqilab