Energy Shortages Disrupt Education in Pakistan and Bangladesh as Regional Supply Concerns Grow

Energy Shortages Disrupt Education in Pakistan and Bangladesh as Regional Supply Concerns Grow
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Pakistan and Bangladesh have introduced emergency energy-saving measures, including school and university closures, as fuel shortages and rising prices linked to disruptions in Middle East energy routes increase pressure on their power systems.

Authorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh have taken steps to reduce electricity and fuel consumption following supply disruptions associated with instability in the Middle East and concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

In Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced temporary austerity measures, including a two-week closure of schools starting March 16 and the shift of universities to online learning. The government also introduced a four-day workweek for most public offices and reduced fuel allocations for state institutions, while half of government employees will work remotely on a rotating basis. Pakistan imports more than 80 percent of its oil needs, and domestic fuel prices have risen by about 20 percent in recent days.

In Bangladesh, authorities ordered public and private universities to begin their Eid al-Fitr holidays earlier than scheduled to reduce electricity demand. Schools had already been closed before Ramadan, meaning many educational institutions will remain inactive during the extended break.

The government has also introduced limits on daily fuel sales and temporarily halted operations at four state-owned fertilizer plants so that natural gas can be redirected to electricity generation. Bangladesh relies heavily on imported energy, with a significant share of its power supply dependent on imported fuels.

The energy situation comes as prices in regional markets have climbed to their highest levels in around four years, reflecting supply concerns and transport disruptions.

Separately, reports from several Gulf states—including United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait—indicate heightened security alerts and disruptions to daily life amid the broader regional tensions affecting energy markets and transport routes.