Pakistan Gas Connections Resume – Climate & Agriculture Emergency Declared
Relief for Households as Pakistan Resumes Gas Connections After Years-Long Ban
Islamabad – In a move hailed as a victory for the people, the federal government has announced the immediate resumption of new gas connections across the country, ending a ban that has been in place sence 2021.The decision, announced Wednesday by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, comes in response to widespread public demand and aims to alleviate the financial burden on households struggling with rising fuel costs.
“The government has heard the voices of its citizens,” stated Minister Malik during a press briefing, emphasizing the cabinet’s commitment to easing the energy burden on families.The ban, initially imposed several years ago, had forced many residents, particularly in newly developed housing areas, to rely on expensive LPG cylinders and other option fuels.
The resumption of gas connections promises significant relief, with Minister Malik explaining that while Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) connections will be offered, they will still be significantly cheaper – approximately 30-35% – than LPG.This will translate to ample savings for households grappling with inflation.
Both Sui gas companies are reportedly prepared to handle the influx of new applications.According to Minister Malik, the companies have already completed the necessary procurement processes for meters and pipelines and will begin processing pending applications as soon as the official notification is issued. Existing applicants will also have the option to convert their requests to RLNG-based connections by paying the prescribed security fee to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been lauded for his role in lifting the ban. Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Petroleum Minister for addressing a major issue that has plagued households for years. “The difficulties caused by the suspension of gas connections will now be resolved,” Chaudhry affirmed.
Looking ahead, the government is also focused on bolstering domestic gas production to reduce reliance on costly imports. Minister Malik highlighted ongoing efforts to attract international companies, including those from Turkiye, China, and the United States, for both onshore and offshore exploration. “By gradually boosting local production, we aim to reduce reliance on RLNG and provide cheaper, indigenous fuel to the people,” he stated. One bidding round for domestic gas exploration has already been completed, with another expected to conclude soon.
In addition to addressing the energy crisis, the cabinet also declared both a climate and agriculture emergency in the country. Minister Chaudhry explained that this decision reflects the government’s recognition of the severe impact of climate change on Pakistan, particularly in the wake of devastating floods. The climate minister has been tasked with submitting a comprehensive report within 15 days, outlining strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the nation from future disasters. The recent floods have caused immense damage, particularly to the agriculture sector, prompting the declaration of an agriculture emergency to assess and address the losses.