A prolonged heatwave combined with severe power outages has disrupted daily life across Khulna and the southwestern region of Bangladesh. Since early April, residents have faced extreme heat and frequent load-shedding lasting up to 10 to 12 hours a day. According to the West Zone Power Distribution Company, on Thursday at 1 p.m., electricity demand in 21 districts under Khulna Division was 801 megawatts, while supply reached only 643 megawatts, leaving a deficit of 158 megawatts. In Khulna district alone, 44 megawatts of load-shedding was required.

The outages have severely affected businesses and households. Shopkeepers in Khulna city reported sharp declines in sales as customers avoid hot, unventilated stores. Fish sellers and other refrigeration-dependent traders are suffering losses due to spoilage. Rising fuel prices have also caused transport disruptions, with long queues at petrol stations and increased fares. Students taking the ongoing SSC exams are struggling to study amid the frequent blackouts.

Local civic group Sujan’s Khulna secretary criticized the government for failing to manage the ongoing electricity and fuel crisis, warning that the situation could worsen if not addressed soon.