Schools and public buildings in the Iranian capital Tehran will remain closed for a third consecutive day on Tuesday as the country grapples with severe fuel shortages, state television reported.
The shortage has led to several power plants being shut down, with authorities imposing energy rationing measures.
Despite being an energy giant with some of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, Iran has struggled to meet domestic energy demands. In recent weeks, the country has been forced to ration electricity, close schools, and shut down government offices to conserve fuel.
The situation has been exacerbated by sub-zero temperatures that have swept across the nation, further straining energy resources.
President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has been actively advocating for reduced fuel consumption, issued a public apology to the nation on Monday. He assured citizens that the current crisis would be resolved by next year, citing efforts to address the underlying issues.
According to state television, a government statement confirmed that the closure of schools, universities, and government offices in Tehran and its surrounding areas would continue on Tuesday due to the persistent cold weather.
The energy crisis has also affected power generation, with a gas-powered plant in Lorestan province partially shut down on Monday due to increased gas consumption among household consumers. The shutdown contributed to a broader energy rationing effort, including the closure of power plants in the northern province of Golestan, as reported by local media.
In Tehran, widespread power cuts have affected households, with residents enduring electricity shortages amidst the ongoing crisis.
According to IRNA, restrictive measures over the past 24 hours have saved two million cubic meters of gas and 100 megawatts of electricity. However, authorities continue to urge the public to reduce energy usage in light of the ongoing shortages.
