Bangladesh suffers widespread power outages during relentless heat

Bangladesh is being forced to cut power to millions of people as a relentless heatwave brings a surge in demand for power causing electricity supply shortfalls during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
Officials say, greater use of irrigation pumps by farmers and an increase in commercial activity during Ramadan have contributed to increased power demand.
Power shortages have been most severe at night, government data showed. The port city of Chittagong, along with the textile, pharmaceutical and jute manufacturing hub of Mymensingh, have been among the worst-affected places.
Industry officials say, the power cuts could increase production costs for Bangladesh’s important export-oriented garment industry.