LAHORE – The Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has decided to limit supply to six hours a day as the ongoing gas crisis continues to disrupt daily life. According to an official statement, gas will now be provided twice a day, mainly during breakfast and dinner hours. The supply will remain suspended in the afternoon due to low pressure in the system.
Sources said the revised schedule has been designed to ensure limited availability during peak usage times only. Authorities stated that due to a severe shortage in the system, it is no longer possible to provide gas three times a day. Even maintaining supply during the current two time slots remains challenging.
Causes of the Crisis
The crisis has been attributed primarily to disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, resulting in difficulties in maintaining consistent gas pressure. The Middle East conflict, which has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, has severely impacted Pakistan’s ability to import LNG. The closure of the strait has driven up global energy prices and created supply shortages worldwide.
Impact on Daily Life
Citizens have been urged to use gas sparingly, as the reduced supply is expected to significantly impact routine life. The six-hour daily supply will primarily cover breakfast and dinner hours, leaving households without gas for cooking during lunch and afternoon periods. Industries that rely on natural gas are also likely to be affected.
Broader Energy Crisis
The gas supply curtailment is part of a broader energy crisis that has gripped Pakistan since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran. The conflict has disrupted global energy supplies, driven up oil and gas prices, and created shortages of essential fuels. The government has implemented various measures to manage the crisis, including fuel subsidies, austerity measures, and diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire.
Looking Ahead
The government has been working to secure alternative energy supplies and has requested Saudi Arabia to extend its oil financing facility for another five years. However, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed and the US-Iran ceasefire still fragile, the energy crisis is likely to continue.
Citizens are advised to conserve gas wherever possible, use alternative cooking methods where available, and stay informed about any changes to the supply schedule.
