Energy disruption hits Bangladesh and Pakistan as Gulf crisis worsens

Pakistan: Pakistan is a South Asian country grappling with energy shortages and sharp increases in fuel prices. Its government has introduced a fuel subsidy program to help ease the burden on vehicle owners and mitigate public frustration caused by the global energy crunch linked to Gulf conflicts. Bangladesh: Bangladesh is a South Asian country that depends significantly on imported liquefied natural gas to generate electricity. The nation is currently facing widespread power outages and industrial disruptions stemming from interruptions in Middle East energy supplies amid the escalating Gulf crisis. Masood Nabi: Masood Nabi is the chief executive of Pakistan LNG, the state-owned importer of liquefied natural gas. He has commented on the country's persistent requirements for gas across power generation and other sectors during the ongoing energy disruptions. Iqbal Hasan Mahmud: Iqbal Hasan Mahmud is the Power Minister of Bangladesh. He has publicly addressed the country's energy challenges, noting the slowdown in industrial activity and reduced production resulting from gas and power supply issues tied to the Gulf crisis. Gulf Crisis: Attacks involving the US, Israel, and Iran, along with fighting between Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthis, have disrupted oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea in recent months. Industry Impact: Bangladesh's garment sector, a key export industry, has experienced order cancellations and partial factory halts due to intermittent gas and electricity supplies. Government Response: Pakistan has implemented a nationwide fuel relief subsidy scheme providing relief on petrol and diesel for eligible small vehicles and motorcycles to counter rising prices.