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Rising fuel prices

23 May 2006, 18:00 PM
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
By Matthew, Cardiff, United Kingdom
23 May 2006, 18:00 PM
Globally, almost every country today is facing the fuel price crisis. Everyone is dealing with this actively. It's not surprising that the Bangladesh government is facing a similar crisis. What remains a matter of befuddlement for both the general citizenry and experts alike is the fact that the government policy is so blinded by upcoming elections that they are more willing to be an idle spectator to the crisis at hand and then revise the government policies for energy by raising prices of oil and electricity.

Our oil emergency reserves are the lowest in the world. What if today, we have no external supply? Experts suggest that in 25 days Bangladesh would face complete closure. We are being warned by all agencies both domestic and foreign as to how this is dangerous for the economic growth and stability of our nation, but yet there is no proper response from the powers that be. Today, Bangladesh is possibly experiencing the worst energy draught since the mid 1970's. Both in supply of fossil fuels and electric energy. Yet, our energy minister says that we have the best situation now and no crisis at hand. So, why are the oil pumps closed in a lean demand season? Why are there cases of rationing? Why is CNG conversion rising? Who is benefiting from this crisis? Why are prices of essentials rising? Why are there blackouts? Why are there early trends of economic slowdown?

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