Low pressure and persistent shortages of Sui gas in the city have worsened the difficulties faced by residents, and the government has failed to ensure supply even during scheduled hours.
Due to the unavailability of gas, people have been forced to rely on LPG, leading to a sharp rise in its prices.
Sources say LPG is being sold in the market at Rs430 to Rs460 per kilogram, making it increasingly unaffordable for the average consumer.
Residents complain that on one hand they regularly pay their Sui gas bills and on the other they are compelled to purchase expensive LPG, severely impacting their household budgets.
The lower middle class, in particular, is being hit hard by the situation, saying their concerns are not being addressed.
Gas crisis deepens for industries, households
Gas shortage across Pakistan has deepened, severely affecting industries while low pressure has left domestic consumers struggling.
The crisis has worsened nationwide due to a shortage of RLNG (Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas). Rapid depletion of existing reserves has reduced gas supply to its lowest levels.
Media reports say that the gas shortfall has exceeded 600 million cubic feet, leading to significant cuts in supply to the power and fertiliser sectors. Domestic consumers are also receiving reduced gas and the lack of pressure in homes has caused serious inconvenience for citizens.
The supply has dropped sharply compared to demand, with daily gas availability declining from 1,200 million cubic feet to just 700 million cubic feet.
On the other hand, Sui Gas authorities have remained silent on the official demand and supply figures. They claim that gas is available in sufficient quantity and insist that supply is being ensured during all three main meal times.
However, due to the shortage, industrial activity across the country is being disrupted, while households facing low pressure are being forced to buy food from the market, putting additional strain on already tight household budgets.
Citizens say that although authorities had announced gas supply during all three meal times, it has not been implemented in practice. Both children and adults are leaving for schools and offices without breakfast, and gas is not being provided according to the announced schedule during lunch and dinner times either.
Also read: LPG prices increase in Lahore
