Mobile network operators in Bangladesh have warned that a worsening global fuel crisis, combined with domestic power disruptions, could significantly impact nationwide telecommunications, raising concerns over the resilience of the country’s digital infrastructure.
The Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB) has called on the government to prioritise fuel supply and ensure stable electricity for telecom facilities, cautioning that prolonged shortages may disrupt services relied upon by millions.
While authorities have reportedly issued instructions to support the sector, operators say the situation on the ground has yet to fully improve.
Industry representatives point to mounting operational challenges, including increased power outages following recent storms. Restoration times, particularly in rural areas served by the Rural Electrification Board (REB), have lengthened, with further disruption expected during the upcoming monsoon season.
Bangladesh’s telecom network spans approximately 45,000 towers and supports around 185 million users, covering nearly the entire population. Critical infrastructure — including base stations, data centres and network operations hubs — depends on uninterrupted electricity to maintain service quality and continuity.
However, much of this infrastructure remains reliant on diesel and petrol-powered generators during outages. With fuel supplies tightening amid global geopolitical tensions, operators warn that any sustained disruption could undermine essential communications nationwide.
The industry is urging the government to adopt a coordinated support framework. Key measures proposed include priority fuel allocation for telecom sites, reduced load shedding at critical facilities, and faster restoration of electricity following weather-related disruptions.
Telecom providers stress that connectivity is integral to economic stability, underpinning services such as digital banking, e-commerce, emergency communications and government operations. Any breakdown in network availability, they warn, could trigger wider disruption across multiple sectors.
Operators have therefore reiterated the need for immediate action to safeguard uninterrupted telecom services and maintain reliable communications for the country’s population.