Dhaka, April 03 (QNA) - Bangladesh begun implementing comprehensive austerity measures on Friday, including reduced working hours and early closures of shops and commercial centers, in an effort to cope with energy crisis caused by the military escalation in the Middle East.
Bangladeshi Cabinet issued a decision to cut government spending on fuel and energy by 30 percent, suspend some staff training, halt the purchase of new vehicles, ships, and aircraft, and ban decorative lighting during celebrations.
Home to over 170 million people, Bangladesh is also seeking alternative fuel sources, along with USD 2.5 billion in external financing to cover its imports, which account for approximately 95 percent of the country's fuel needs. (QNA)