Khairpur: gas shortage

Letter February 12, 2025
Khairpur: gas shortage

The shortage of gas in Khairpur has made life extremely difficult for people. What’s even more frustrating is that gas prices have also increased. Citizens are now forced to pay more for something they are not even receiving. This unfair situation has left the people feeling helpless and angry as they struggle to manage their daily needs.
For many households in Khairpur, cooking food has become a daily challenge. Families wake up early in the morning, hoping that gas will be available, but most of the time, they are disappointed. Women in particular are facing serious difficulties as they are unable to cook meals on time. Many are now forced to use expensive alternatives like LPG cylinders, coal or wood, which adds to their financial burden.
Businesses, especially hotels, tandoors, restaurants and small factories, are also suffering due to the shortage. Many businesses in Khairpur rely heavily on gas for their daily operations, and without it, they are experiencing major losses. Tandoor owners are unable to bake bread, leading to complaints from customers. Similarly, industries that require gas for production are unable to meet their daily targets, causing financial instability. 
Adding to this crisis is the poor infrastructure. Many gas pipelines in the city are leaking, leading to wastage, yet no action is taken to fix them. But despite facing severe gas shortages, the citizens of Khairpur are forced to pay high gas bills. The increased gas tariff has put extra burden on middle-class and lower-income families, who are already struggling with inflation and financial difficulties. Many people are unable to afford alternative sources of energy, and are left with no choice but to suffer in silence.
Instead of constantly blaming each other, political leaders need to come together and find an urgent and lasting solution to the problem. The government must take serious action to restore gas supply, repair faulty pipelines and improve infrastructure. Additionally, there needs to be better management and planning for the future so that such crises do not continue to happen.
Rizwan Ahmed Pato 
Khairpur Mirs