Dhaka to experience load shedding experimentally: State minister

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit has said the government is being forced to implement load shedding due to a shortfall in electricity generation, adding that a decision has been taken to introduce experimental power cuts in the capital.

He made the statement on Thursday while delivering a speech under Rule 300 in the National Parliament.

The state minister said the government had decided to impose trial load shedding in Dhaka in order to ensure uninterrupted irrigation support for the agricultural sector and reduce disparities between urban and rural areas.

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He said the initiative was taken to ensure that farmers in rural areas are not affected and receive adequate electricity supply during the irrigation season.

According to the minister, electricity demand on Wednesday stood at 16,000 megawatts, while actual generation was 14,126.35 megawatts, leaving a deficit of 2,086 megawatts.

“As a result, we are compelled to carry out load shedding,” he said.

Speaking on the broader energy crisis, Amit said both the ruling party and the opposition had come together to address the issue.

He said detailed discussions on energy matters were held between the government and opposition on Wednesday, describing the most significant achievement as the establishment of a tone of unity for running the country collectively.

He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had proposed the formation of a 10-member committee, which he said would serve as a new direction for the nation.

The minister also said consultations had been held with the leader of the opposition to seek advice on ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply.