Residents are once again facing difficulties during the winter season as Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has resumed scheduled gas load shedding. As a result, gas supply has been restricted in several areas, with availability limited mainly to cooking hours.
The move has triggered frustration among consumers, especially amid cold weather conditions.
Gas Supply Limited to Cooking Hours
According to sources, Sui Northern has reduced gas pressure across many localities and is now:
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Increasing pressure only during cooking times
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Keeping gas pressure very low during the rest of the day
This has disrupted daily life, making it difficult for households to use heaters and geysers.
Public Reaction Amid Harsh Winter
Citizens report that despite the cold weather:
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Gas pressure remains extremely low in most areas
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Routine household activities are being affected
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Elderly people, children, and patients are facing serious inconvenience
Many residents have expressed anger over the situation, calling it unacceptable during peak winter.
Government’s Winter Gas Supply Announcement
It is important to note that the federal government had earlier announced:
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Continuous gas supply throughout the day during winter
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Adequate pressure from morning till night for domestic consumers
However, sources claim that Sui Northern has ignored these directives and restarted gas load shedding.
Sui Northern’s Justification
The gas utility company maintains that:
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Continuous gas supply makes it difficult to control line losses
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Old and damaged pipelines are causing significant gas leakage
Due to these issues, the company says it is forced to regulate supply instead of providing gas round the clock.
Aging Pipelines Add to the Problem
Sources further revealed that:
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Many gas pipelines are outdated and worn out
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Leakage has led to substantial gas wastage
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Instead of long-term infrastructure upgrades, load shedding is being used as a short-term solution
Experts believe this approach is worsening public frustration.
Citizens Demand Immediate Action
Affected consumers have urged the government to:
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Take immediate notice of gas load shedding
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Ensure uninterrupted gas supply during winter
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Hold the gas utility accountable for failing to follow federal directives
