High inflation and ‘abnormal’ hikes in gas prices in Bangladesh could lead to worker unrest in the garment industry, and greater energy poverty, experts say.

Analysts say the only way forward amidst surging LNG prices is to steer India, Pakistan and Bangladesh towards more sustainable renewable energy sources.

Bangladesh has initiated a fast-track move to award new contracts to generate around 1,000 MW of electricity from renewable energy and bring it online within the next year and a half to meet growing demand for electricity without using fossil fuels.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led to a sharp escalation in fuel prices, making it difficult for the import-dependent nation to keep the lights on.