Power sector runs with wrong data and statistics

"We're running with wrong information and data. All the information provided by the Power Development Board on power generation, demand, supply, load-shedding and system loss are incorrect... This is not acceptable," he told reporters at his ministry office.

The Power Adviser's harsh remarks came at a time when the country is experiencing a severe power crisis. The country faces about 1,500 MW of power shortage against the demand for about 5,000 MW.

An on-again off-again situation has become a common phenomenon in both rural and urban areas adding to the woes of the people during hot and humid weather.

Tapan Chowdhury, however, could not give any assurance whether the situation would improve in the near future.

He said the power ministry would take actions against those responsible for providing such wrong data and information.

Referring to his recent experience, the adviser said all the time the accurate information are either suppressed or disseminated improperly.

"Suppose, if you want daily generation statistics, they would always provide you with exaggerated figures... If the real generation is 3,500 MW, they would tell you 3,650 MW," Tapan said. "What's the benefit of providing these wrong information? I think the real picture in the power sector is even worse."

The adviser said the government is considering preparing a seven-day advanced load-shedding schedule to let the people know about the possible blackout.

He said the caretaker government is working to find out all possible options to have enough electricity through all possible ways, including importing from neighbouring countries like India and Myanmar.

Tapan said the government would initiate a move to import hydropower from Myanmar.

The Power Division will put forward a proposal to the Chief Advisor's Office to send PDB and PGCB officials to Myanmar to assess the feasibility of the hydropower import.

Similarly, the government will pursue India to set up a nuclear power plant with its help to resolve the power crisis, he added.

Replying to a question on Barapukuria coal mine and power plant project, the adviser said the government's agreements with its Chinese contracts were not fair. "But both the mine and power plant have to be kept functioning at this critical moment," he said.