The Barapukuria 525MW coal-fired power plant in Dinajpur has completely shut down following a mechanical issue in its only running unit on Tuesday afternoon.

Chief Engineer Abu Bakkar Siddique said a ruptured boiler tube caused the shutdown.

"We expect to resume operations within a week," he added.

This closure raises concerns over severe power shortages in the northern region, particularly during the peak irrigation season for Aman cultivation.

The plant has three units.

However, mechanical issues had already taken the second unit out of operation, leaving only the first and third running.

On February 15, the third unit was shut down due to mechanical faults.