Dhaka, Sep 27 (V7N)- Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud has said that all obstacles affecting the country's fuel supply line have been resolved and fuel is now arriving smoothly.
He made the remarks during a meeting at the Secretariat on Sunday, September 27.
The Energy Minister said the conflict between Iran and Israel had disrupted oil and gas supplies from the Middle East, a key source of Bangladesh's energy imports. The government subsequently had to identify alternative sources, which took some time.
He said that even after alternative fuel was procured, deliveries were further delayed following a fire at a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU).
Expressing regret over the difficulties faced by the public, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud said citizens had placed their trust in the government through the electoral process. However, supply-related problems and the accident contributed to the disruption.
He said fuel is now being imported regularly and supply schedules have been brought back on track. Barring any further accidents or unforeseen problems, he expressed hope that the country's power and energy supply would remain stable in the future.
The minister apologized for the losses and hardships caused by the disruption, saying the government did not create the situation intentionally.
To reduce public suffering, the government procured gas from alternative sources at a higher cost, he said.
Iqbal Hasan Mahmud also said the issue was resolved quickly after Prime Minister Tareq Rahman personally intervened, with relevant officials working together to restore the supply chain.
The government is now focused on maintaining regular fuel imports and ensuring a stable power and energy supply across the country.
END/SMA/AJ
