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Bangladesh is
currently experiencing a devastating heatwave, which is compounded by a
crippling power crisis.
The scorching
temperatures, reaching over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This also
have resulted in power cuts and disrupted daily life for millions of
Bangladeshis.
Why it is so hot this year in Bangladesh?
The prolonged
absence of rain and low humidity levels are contributing to the rising temperatures
and making the heat unbearable, Bazlur explained. “The current situation may
persist for a few more days.”
This article
explores the impact of the heatwave and power shortage on the lives of
residents, as well as the underlying causes contributing to the crisis.
The Impacts on Daily Life:
Residents are
struggling to cope with the intense heat and lack of electricity in their slum
area.
The absence of
power during the night has disrupted sleep patterns and left people drenched in
sweat.
Tens of
thousands of schools have also been forced to close temporarily to protect
students from the extreme heat.
How does Global Warming affecting Bangladesh?
The Bangladesh
Meteorological Department confirms that this heatwave is the longest and most
severe since the country's independence in 1971.
Dhaka and other
cities, like Rangpur, are experiencing record-breaking temperatures, further
exacerbating the crisis.
Power Plant Shutdown and Fuel Shortages:
The country's
largest power plant, Payra, has been shut down due to a shortage of coal, while
several other power plants are undergoing maintenance or lack sufficient fuel.
Importing fuel
has become challenging due to a decline in foreign exchange reserves and the
devaluation of the Bangladeshi taka, hindering the government's ability to
address the crisis effectively.
Impact on Freelancers and Remote Workers:
Freelancers
like graphic designer Julfiqar Ali, who chose to move from Dhaka to Rangpur for
a better quality of life, now face instability in electricity supply.
Ali, reported
by Al-Jazeera as another freelancer has missed project deadlines and struggles
to work effectively with the erratic power situation, jeopardizing his
livelihood.
Lingering Crisis and Financial Challenges:
The power
crisis is projected to persist and potentially worsen due to the country's
financial constraints.
Bangladesh's
foreign exchange reserves have dropped below $30 billion, a significant decline
from $46 billion a year ago.
The closure of
multiple power plants, including the largest one, intensifies the shortage and
contributes to unprecedented load-shedding.
Impact on Industries and Export Earnings:
Bangladesh's
crucial ready-made garments (RMG) sector, responsible for more than 80 percent
of the country's export earnings, has been severely affected by power outages.
Factory owners
are experiencing production delays and increased costs, ultimately impacting
export deadlines and earnings.
Some resort to
costly alternatives, such as chartering flights for timely shipments, further
straining the already challenging financial situation.
Government Measures and Energy Policy Critiques:
Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina felt the people's suffering and the impact of the heatwave on the
power crisis.
The government
is working on acquiring fuel from Qatar and Oman, as well as importing more
coal.
However, energy
adviser in the Government of Bangladesh Shamsul Alam points out that the crisis
has been worsening due to a flawed energy policy.
Heavy reliance
on natural gas, which is depleting, and a lack of diversification in energy
sources have left the country vulnerable to such crises.
Lastly:
The combination
of an unprecedented heatwave and a severe power crisis has plunged Bangladesh
into a state of distress.
The
government's efforts to address the crisis and secure fuel imports offer some
hope, but long-term solutions to diversify energy sources and improve
infrastructure are necessary.
As Bangladesh
continues to face this dire situation, the daily lives, health, and economy of
its people remain at risk.
(Courtesy:
Al-Jazeera)
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