Thousands rally over hikes in electricity tariffs and fuel costs in Bangladesh

Protesters Take to the Streets Over Rising Costs

Thousands flooded the streets of Dhaka on Thursday to protest rising electricity and fuel prices, as many described the current cost of living in Bangladesh as ‘unbearable.’

Footage shows large crowds riding motorcycles or marching through Bangladesh’s capital, carrying signs and a large banner reading, ‘in protest against repeated increases in fuel and electricity prices.’

“The electricity and fuel crisis is a global crisis, but the rate at which prices have increased in our country is no longer bearable for the common working people,” said Rabiul Islam, a protester.

“When the world situation was turbulent due to the Iran-America war, the increase in fuel prices was reasonable for some. But the subsequent increases in fuel prices were completely unreasonable,” added Ashraful Alam, another demonstrator.

Demonstrators Criticise Economic Pressure

The rally was organised by the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami party, which condemned the latest electricity tariff hike, arguing that the measure places additional financial pressure on households already struggling with rising living costs.

“This will affect the daily necessities of the people,” protester Abdul Quader said. “Even though the price of everything has increased, the income of the people has not increased. On the contrary, the income has decreased.”

Electricity Tariffs Increased Nationwide

The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) announced a major electricity price hike on Wednesday, increasing wholesale tariffs by 19.85% and consumer retail tariffs by an average of 16.68%.

The measure was introduced to ease heavy fiscal strains on state finances, amid global disruptions to global energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of the war in Iran.

Authorities Revise Decision After Backlash

Following nationwide backlash, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources (MPEMR)’s Power Division urgently petitioned BERC to protect vulnerable families. In response, the commission issued a revised directive on Thursday, rolling back the price hike and freezing rates for everyone using 75 units or fewer.

Critics argue that such measures risk increasing the burden on consumers, while the government has maintained that energy pricing reforms are necessary to address fiscal and market pressures.

Article by Viory