Energy Bangla

Electricity tariffs have not been increased for a total of 65 percent of consumers. Although the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) initially raised electricity prices for all consumer categories, the government later appealed the decision and secured an exemption from the increased tariffs for low-income consumers.
This information was shared at a press briefing organized by the Ministry of Information on Saturday. Officials stated that even after the latest adjustment, electricity prices have not been increased to the level required to fully cover the subsidy burden. The decision was taken with consideration for controlling inflation and protecting the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
Speaking at the briefing, Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said that despite the tariff increase, the government would still need to provide Tk 41,000 crore in subsidies to the power sector. Responding to a question, he remarked that it would take time to break free from the cycle of corruption in the electricity sector.
The Prime Minister’s Information Adviser, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, presented the written statement.
The adviser said that although fuel prices had increased in the global market, the government tried to avoid raising domestic fuel prices in order to keep inflation under control. However, prices were adjusted upward slightly in mid-April. For June, the prices of three types of fuel—octane, petrol, and kerosene—were increased, while the price of diesel remained unchanged.
He added that keeping diesel prices unchanged would prevent any impact on public transportation fares.
The adviser further commented that although there may be some inflationary pressure, its impact on low-income people would be limited due to the continuation of various government social welfare programs.