Tarique Rahman apologizes for Bangladesh power and gas shortages

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman apologized for Bangladesh’s power and gas shortages and said the government was taking urgent steps to ease the crisis within days.

Speaking at an event marking the 80th birth anniversary of late prime minister Khaleda Zia, Rahman linked the gas shortage to limited liquefied natural gas storage and regasification capacity and an accident involving one of two vessels used for storage.

“I sincerely apologise to the people for the suffering caused by the power crisis,” he said.

Rahman said technical problems had been addressed and the government was working with China and other countries to expand capacity. He also said he had sought help from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Rahman challenged critics to present realistic alternatives in parliament, saying the government would adopt any workable plan capable of resolving the problems within six months.