Energy Crisis: Expert Insights
Energy expert Badrul Imam, former professor of geology at Dhaka University, has raised concerns about the government’s approach to tackling the ongoing energy crisis in Bangladesh. Imam believes that the recent shutdown of diesel-run power plants is merely a temporary solution that fails to address the root causes of the problem. He emphasizes the importance of comprehensive planning and specific strategies to effectively manage the energy crisis.
Lack of Comprehensive Assessment
Imam criticizes the government for not conducting a thorough assessment of the energy situation before deciding to shut down the power plants. He questions the effectiveness of such measures and highlights the potential consequences of increasing diesel use in other sectors due to the crisis. According to Imam, the closure of power plants without proper planning may exacerbate the problem and lead to a further reliance on diesel generators.
Focus on Native Energy Sources
Imam emphasizes the need to prioritize energy generation from native sources, particularly gas reserves in Bangladesh. He points out the discrepancy between the price of imported LNG and local gas, highlighting the economic advantages of utilizing domestic resources. Imam suggests that the government should focus on exploring and exploiting the abundant gas reserves in the Bengal delta to address the energy crisis effectively.
Call for Comprehensive Solutions
Imam urges the government to adopt specific and appropriate plans to address the energy crisis comprehensively. He stresses the importance of conducting wide-scale exploration drives to identify undiscovered gas reserves and secure a sustainable energy supply for the future. Imam warns against piecemeal management and emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to solving the crisis.
Imam’s insights shed light on the complexities of the energy crisis in Bangladesh and the importance of strategic planning and sustainable solutions. His expertise highlights the challenges faced by the government in managing the energy sector effectively and underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of the crisis. As Bangladesh navigates these challenges, Imam’s recommendations provide valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders in the energy industry.