Hobiganj, Bangladesh: The Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), Jalal Ahmed, has assured that there will be no immediate increase in gas and electricity prices in the country. He highlighted that in the past, previous governments would raise gas and electricity prices through executive orders, bypassing the Energy Regulatory Commission. However, the current interim government has abolished this practice of raising prices through executive orders.
Jalal Ahmed made these remarks on Monday, August 26, in response to a journalist’s question following a seminar titled “Floods and Waterlogging in the Khowai River Basin: Causes and Solutions.” The seminar was organized by Khwai River Waterkeeper and the environmental organization Dhara at the Hobiganj Press Club, where Ahmed was the chief guest.
In his response, the BERC Chairman said, “The previous government increased gas and electricity prices through executive orders, bypassing the Energy Regulatory Commission. However, the current interim government has abolished this rule. Any future price increases will be determined by the Energy Regulatory Commission, which follows a specific price-setting process. Any price adjustments will have to follow this process.”
Ahmed also addressed issues regarding the quick rental power production agreements, stating that although some of these three-year contracts were renewed, the price adjustments were not properly aligned. He emphasized that these irregularities would be investigated. Contracts with companies that are providing electricity as per their agreements will continue, while those that are not meeting their obligations will be canceled.
Additionally, Ahmed discussed a canceled Tk 2,000 crore development project concerning the Khowai River and Old Khowai River, noting that efforts would be made to devise a new plan. He suggested that by reviewing CS and RS maps to determine the actual position of the rivers, a list could be made identifying those encroaching on river land, compelling many to vacate these areas. He also stressed the need for awareness programs to prevent pollution of the rivers.
The seminar was presided over by environmental activist and poet Tahmina Begum Gini, with Tofazzal Sohel of Khowai River Waterkeeper presenting the concept paper.