Dhaka, Sept. 22 -- The government has raised fuel prices by Tk 20 per litre at a time when Bangladesh's economy is under pressure and the purchasing power of low-income people is steadily shrinking.

The decision, which is expected to put further pressure on consumers, had already triggered discussion the night before the increase.

People on limited incomes began the day fearing another rise in prices, while economists questioned how far inflation could climb.

The increase also raised questions about whether the government could have taken other measures instead of raising prices by such a large amount at once.

International fuel prices began rising after the war involving Iran, which started towards the end of February, disrupted oil ...