Austerity measures kick in amid energy crisis

Government-imposed austerity measures –
featuring revised office hours and shorter business operations – came into
effect today (5 April) as the country moves to curb energy consumption amid the
ongoing Middle East crisis.
Under the new
schedule, all government and private offices will operate till 4pm, starting at
9am, while markets, retail outlets and shopping malls must close by 6pm.
In line with the
government's directive, Bangladesh Bank has adjusted the office and transaction
hours for all scheduled banks and non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs).
These institutions will remain open from 10am to 5pm, with customer
transactions allowed between 10am and 3pm.
Trading on the capital market will now end
at 2pm, half an hour earlier than usual, after opening at 10am.
A decision on
implementing an energy-saving plan in educational institutions is still
pending. Officials said the matter will be finalised following consultations
with relevant stakeholders.
Meanwhile,
emergency services have been kept outside the purview of the new office
schedule.
These include
essential utilities such as electricity, water, gas and other fuels, along with
fire service, port operations, sanitation, telecommunications and postal
services. Healthcare services, including hospitals, doctors, medical staff, as
well as vehicles transporting medicines and equipment, and the media, will also
continue to operate without disruption.
















