Chattogram Gas Shortage Worsens as LNG Terminals Face Technical Issues
The city of Chattogram is facing a severe gas shortage due to technical and weather-related problems at the LNG terminals in Cox's Bazar's Moheshkhali. The two terminals, operated by Excelerate Energy and Summit LNG, have seen a 63% decline in gas supply, causing a shortfall of around 140 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) in Chattogram, which has a daily demand of 350 mmcfd.
According to Petrobangla's production and marketing division, the terminals were supplying around 410 mmcfd as of 10am on August 12. However, their combined regasification capacity is 1,100 mmcfd, with Excelerate Energy's terminal capable of producing 600 mmcfd and Summit LNG's terminal capable of producing 500 mmcfd.
The reduced gas supply has caused long queues at CNG refuelling stations across the city, with drivers waiting for hours to fill up their vehicles. The shortage has also affected residential consumers and industries, with some households facing difficulties cooking due to the lack of gas.