The Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, has stated that there is no shortage of electricity in the country to meet demand. He noted that temporary power disruptions can occur due to storms, trees falling on lines, or faults in transmission and distribution lines.
During the question-answer session in the Jatiya Sangsad, members raised concerns about long power outages in rural areas and load shedding. In response, the Minister clarified that load shedding occurs when there is no power supply, but disruptions due to natural causes are not load shedding.
Independent MP Rumeen Farhana highlighted that rural areas often experience 10-12 hours without power, calling it a reality. The Minister disagreed, stating that he does not agree with the claim of 10-12 hours without power.
Regarding gas supply to the Ashulia fertilizer factory, the Minister explained that gas shortages prevent connection, but drilling has started with hopes of improving the situation. He assured that gas will be supplied to all fertilizer factories once available.
The Minister also addressed transformer theft, acknowledging the difficulty in preventing it in rural areas and urging local communities to be vigilant.
