The local apparel producers welcomed Tuesday the government decision to shut down five fertiliser factories in its desperate bid to cut gas shortage in the industrial sector and increase power generation.

Abdus Salam Murshedy, President of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), termed it a very timely decision of the government against the backdrop of the current power supply situation and the shortage of gas.

The trade body expressed hope the freed-up gas would be used in producing electricity. "As a result, the electricity generation will be increased and the gas and power crises in the industrial sector, particularly the garment sector, will ease to some extent," it said in a statement.