Widespread Nationwide Gas and Electricity Crisis Following Maheshkhali LNG FSRU Fire, Explosion, and Technical Failure

Following a fire, boiler explosion, and mechanical failure at the Excelerate Energy FSRU terminal in Maheshkhali starting July 21, 2026, a severe nationwide natural gas and electricity crisis emerged. The incident caused up to a 50 percent reduction in natural gas supply, leading to significant industrial production declines, and disruptions to residential and transport sectors. A further technical failure on August 14, 2026, exacerbated the gas supply cessation. As of August 22, 2026, severe shortages persist, particularly in Chattogram, which is receiving only 55% of its daily 320 million cubic feet requirement.