DHAKA, Bangladesh

The Bangladesh government has ordered civil servants to conserve electricity and make greater use of daylight as the Middle East conflict deepens pressure on energy supplies.

In a directive issued by the Public Administration Ministry on Sunday, officials were instructed to reduce electricity consumption during daytime hours.

“If there is sufficient natural light during the day, the use of electric lights should be economical and daylight should be used by keeping windows and doors or blinds open,” the order said.

It also directed that air conditioners be kept at 25 degrees Celsius or above, while all electrical appliances must be switched off after office hours.

In a separate order on Monday, the Energy Ministry announced a reward of 100,000 Bangladeshi taka (about $815) for information on illegal fuel storage and smuggling.

The government said the measures aim to ensure the balanced use of fuel oil imported at high prices.

The US-Israel war with Iran and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted regional energy flows, contributing to shortages and price pressures in Bangladesh.

Long queues have been seen at fuel stations, with some motorists leaving without refueling after hours-long waits.