Uninterrupted gas supply

In Pakistan, the natural gas sector is characterised by decreasing availability and increasing prices. The country has been experiencing a bad kind of gas shortage during winter months for years because at this time there is an upsurge in demand for the commodity as it is used for the purpose of home heating in northern regions where temperature drops to freezing and below the freezing point in December and January. This year there was a sharp drop in temperature in mid-December and most parts of the country are still in the grip of a cold wave. This has increased the use of gas for heating, leading to a decrease in supplies to CNG pumps and domestic consumers. In Sindh, including Karachi, gas supply to CNG pumps remained closed for almost a week causing immense trouble to commuters in urban areas. The shortage has also resulted in low gas pressure at people’s homes making it difficult to prepare meals. The problem still persists. The minister of petroleum, though, claimed in the National Assembly last week that “there is no gas load-shedding in any part of the country.” We can only find solace in the saying: Lying is prerogative of government.

The government announced on Dec 26 that it would ensure uninterrupted gas supply to domestic consumers, commercial units and zero-rated industries this winter. We will see in a few days how the promise materialises. In September, the government increased gas prices by a whopping 143 per cent which has further fuelled the inflationary pressure.

The gas shortage in winter compels the poor segments to cut trees and use firewood to cook food and to keep themselves warm. The cutting of trees results in environmental degradation and burning of firewood produces smog. This aspect should also be kept in mind while tackling the issues pertaining to gas supply.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 28^th, 2018.

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