People face mounting pressure from rising costs

Published : Saturday, 18 April, 2026 at 11:49 AM Count : 6

“Cost, cost, and more cost” has become the reality for many people, as rising prices continue to strain daily life, especially for lower- and middle-income households.

From essential goods to healthcare, education, transportation, and housing—almost every expense has increased. However, incomes have not kept pace. The situation has worsened due to a fuel crisis linked to tensions in the Middle East, adding further pressure on the economy.

Higher fuel prices have driven up transportation costs, which in turn have pushed the prices of daily necessities even higher. The impact has been particularly severe on those dependent on transport-based livelihoods. Around one million people are involved in the country’s ride-sharing sector, including a large number of drivers working through platforms like Pathao and Uber. Many of them have faced reduced earnings as long hours in fuel queues cut into their working time.

Businesses have also come under pressure, with reduced operating hours in markets and shopping malls affecting overall commercial activity.

As a result, households with limited incomes are being squeezed further. Across both the capital and district towns, many people are cutting back on essential purchases, while some are returning from markets empty-handed. For many families, even managing daily meals has become difficult.

The rising cost of healthcare has created a particularly alarming situation. Each year, around five million people fall into poverty due to medical expenses. Many are forced to take loans or sell assets to cover treatment costs, often without receiving adequate care. Recent child deaths linked to measles have further exposed weaknesses in the health system.

Education expenses have also surged sharply. Costs related to school fees, coaching, private tutors, and books have increased by 60 to 90 percent, placing a heavy burden on families. As a result, many children from low-income households are being forced to drop out. Studies indicate that nearly half of students discontinue education at some stage, primarily due to poverty. According to UNESCO, education costs have risen by about 80 percent, and around 7 percent of families are taking loans to support their children’s schooling.

At the same time, housing rent, transportation costs, and other daily expenses have continued to rise. Private sector employees have been particularly affected, as wage growth has remained limited while living costs have steadily increased. Many are now relying on savings or loans to sustain their households.

Although official data shows a slight decline in inflation, the relief has not been felt in real terms. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, inflation dropped to 8.71 percent in March from 9.13 percent in February. Food inflation stood at 8.24 percent, while non-food inflation reached 9.09 percent.

Meanwhile, wage growth was recorded at 8.09 percent, remaining below the inflation rate. This indicates a decline in real income, meaning people can afford fewer goods and services despite earning more in nominal terms.

Economist Dr. Mustafa K. Mujeri said inflation close to 9 percent has placed significant pressure on households, particularly those with fixed incomes. He also noted that slower economic growth and limited job opportunities have contributed to a decline in living standards.

He warned that rising healthcare and education costs are creating long-term risks, adding that weaknesses in the health system and increasing dropout rates could have lasting consequences.

Overall, the country is going through a difficult period, where maintaining even a basic standard of living is becoming increasingly challenging for many.

FP/A