Electricity supply has been severely disrupted throughout the island upazila of Hatiya in Noakhali due to a fault in the engine of the local power generation plant. Residents are experiencing extreme suffering as electricity remains unavailable for hours both during the day and night.
This has created serious obstacles in the studies and preparations of students, especially those sitting for the HSC examinations.
There was no electricity in the entire upazila from evening till midnight. Even when it came back for 10-15 minutes at times, it would go off again shortly on Thursday
Locals complained that despite good weather conditions, no proper explanation for the load shedding was being provided. Many visited the Hatiya electricity office at night only to find the executive engineer’s office in darkness. Upon inquiry, it was learned that electricity supply across the upazila was cut off due to engine failure at the power generation plant.
The government has implemented a 15-megawatt power generation project for Hatiya, Nijhum Dwip, and Kutubdia. The project, constructed in two phases at a cost of Tk 668 crore, is operated by the private company Desh Energy. Multiple mechanical faults since its inception have caused frustration among consumers.
Md. Ibrahim (50), a resident of Ward No. 1 of Hatiya Municipality, said, “Since the start of the HSC exams, load shedding has been rampant. It’s causing serious problems for the children's studies. There’s no schedule—no one knows when the power will come or go.”
Moshiur Rahman, Executive Engineer of Hatiya Electricity Division, said, “Power generation is under Desh Energy’s control. We are completely at their mercy. If they shut down the engine, we can’t do anything.”
Mahfuz Rahman, Officer -In -Charge of Desh Energy’s Hatiya center, said, “Load shedding is occurring due to a fuel shortage and mechanical faults in the engine. Repair work is ongoing, and we hope the problem will be resolved within a day or two.”
Locals also reported that the water supply is being disrupted due to the lack of electricity amid the heat. Frustrated businesspeople and parents of students have warned of launching strict protests if the issue is not resolved soon.
