A severe gas crisis spoiled the iftar plans on the very first day of Ramzan on Sunday for many people living in the capital and its outskirts. A technical fault in the country’s largest Bibiyana gas field in Sylhet prompted the supply disruption. In the wake of the abrupt gas crunch, many residents vented anger on the authorities. However, The Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Limited and the Energy Division expressed apologies for the inconvenience. On the plethora of public sufferings, we welcome the Titas authority to express an apology to the consumers. It is anticipated that the authority would fix the supply disruption as early as possible as the devotees are suffering from their negligence.
On 30 March, Bibiyana field operator Chevron supplied around 1530 million cubic feet of gas (mmcf) from the field while the total supply in the country was 3,059mmcf. But on Sunday, Chevron’s supply dropped by around 100mmcf to 1,418, dealing a blow to consumers in Dhaka and adjacent areas. People living in Rampura, Ganderia, Basaboo, Banasri, Hatirpool, Dhanmondi, Azimpur, Kalyanpur, Mohammadpur, Bhatara and Rayerbazar complained that they faced hassles in preparing iftar and evening meals due to the crisis of gas.
In general, we are facing acute gas shortage due to negligence towards gas exploration and the reliance on imported LNG. Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) has the capacity to drill three or four exploration wells each year. In the short term, LNG imports may need to continue to meet the existing demand, particularly for sectors where no immediate alternative is available. The government and BAPEX should explore more sources to meet the growing need for gas in industries and electricity production. Amid the global crisis, exploring and proper distribution can sustainably protect energy security. The city dwellers would be happy to see the fixed problem of gas connection, whereas policymakers can emphasize gas wastage, proper pricing, exploration and uses.
