Bangladesh Confronts Power Crisis Amid Adani's Payment Ultimatum

Bangladesh’s government faces intensifying pressure from Adani Power Ltd. as the Indian conglomerate demands payment of $850 million in unpaid electricity dues, raising concerns over potential outages. Adani has already halved its power supply to Bangladesh and indicated a complete cut-off if dues remain unpaid by November 7. The dispute comes amid Bangladesh's financial and energy turmoil, with daily shortfalls already impacting the nation of 174 million.

The Yunus-led interim administration, which assumed office following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, is struggling to stabilize the energy sector. Power ministry officials have stated plans to pay approximately $700 million, but arrears have largely accrued under the previous administration. Adani’s escalation stems from a lack of financial guarantees from Bangladesh’s central bank, a prerequisite for securing coal and operational funding. This financial strain reflects Bangladesh’s broader challenges in balancing international commitments with internal energy needs.