Bangladesh Closes Universities Early Amid Energy Crisis

Bangladesh will close all public and private universities from Monday, bringing forward the Eid al-Fitr holidays as part of emergency measures to conserve electricity and fuel amid a worsening energy crisis linked to the Middle East conflict .

Authorities said the decision applies to all universities nationwide and will reduce electricity consumption on campuses, which use large amounts of power for residential halls, classrooms, laboratories, and air conditioning. Officials also noted that easing traffic congestion would help save fuel, as vehicles are a significant contributor to energy use.

Most schools and colleges are already closed for Ramadan, meaning that educational institutions across the country will now remain shut during this period. The move comes as Bangladesh faces uncertainty over fuel and gas supplies following disruptions in global energy markets.

The country, which imports around 95% of its energy , recently imposed daily limits on fuel sales after panic buying and stockpiling. As part of broader austerity measures, the government has asked foreign-curriculum schools and private coaching centres to suspend operations temporarily to reduce electricity consumption.

Severe gas shortages have already forced Bangladesh to halt operations at four of its five state-run fertiliser factories , redirecting available gas to power plants to prevent widespread outages. To bridge the supply gap, the country has purchased LNG from the spot market at higher prices and is seeking additional cargoes.

A senior energy ministry official said, “We are doing everything we can to reduce consumption and ensure stability in power, fuel, and import supplies.”

Bangladesh’s heavy reliance on imported energy makes it highly sensitive to global crises. Any disruption can lead to price volatility, power shortages, and economic strain, highlighting the importance of emergency measures like early university closures and temporary restrictions on electricity use.

By taking these steps, authorities aim to stabilise energy supply , prevent widespread outages, and manage fuel and electricity consumption until conditions improve.