Bangladesh University Closures Aim to Reduce Energy Use Amid Global Fuel Shocks

Bangladesh has ordered all public and private universities to close from Monday. The move is part of a wider effort to save electricity and fuel. Authorities aligned the shutdown with the planned Eid-ul-Fitr academic break. Officials described it as a precaution as Bangladesh prepares for possible disruption in global energy supplies.

The Education Ministry sent the directive through an office order. Assistant secretary Sultan Ahmed signed the instruction. Universities will follow the existing Eid-ul-Fitr schedule. The step also supports lower power use. The newly formed Tarique Rehman government is also pushing an austerity drive focused on nationwide energy consumption.

The government also asked people to reduce fuel and power use. An energy ministry circular advised limiting non-essential travel to curb fuel spending. Residents were told to use electricity carefully. Officials also urged people to avoid decorative lighting where possible. Citizens were encouraged to use fewer private vehicles and rely more on public transport.

Officials said the conflict in West Asia is already pressuring Bangladesh through global energy markets. Bangladesh depends heavily on imported energy, which increases exposure to price swings. Panic buying was reported at fuel stations in Dhaka. Long queues formed, and some drivers waited up to three hours. Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation officials said fuel is enough short term, but risks remain.