KARACHI:
Since the start of the winter season, Karachiites have been met with an unusual gas load-shedding that lasts up to 10 hours a day in most parts of the city. Many have accused the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) of indulging in deliberate load-shedding like K-Electric. It has made it difficult for people to cook, bathe and carry out other household chores.
The gas load-shedding has been yet another burden on low and middle-income families that have to now rely on food from restaurants, which is usually overpriced. What’s more absurd is that the SSGC has advised people to purchase liquified petroleum gas (LPG) to meet their needs, which most people cannot afford.
Last month, Federal Minister for Energy Hammad Azhar said that the supply of gas would be ensured for domestic consumers during breakfast, lunch and dinner hours amid the major gas shortfall in the country. However, his statement was totally mismatched. It is during the morning, afternoon and night that the gas supply is either low or entirely stops. Consequently, there is an increased demand for gas cylinders, and prices of cylinders are skyrocketing. This is the first time that the citizens of Karachi are facing such a dire situation. Both provincial and federal governments must do more than just engage in mere lip service. They should take concrete measures to resolve the crisis.
Ashfaq Sharif
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 23rd, 2021.
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