Overcoming gas shortage

The government is taking all steps to resolve the gas crisis in the country. At present, the demand for gas is 6,000-6,500mmfcd and the domestic supply is 3,300mcfd leaving a shortfall of around 3,000mmcfd. This is the situation in the winter season when the demand for gas increases for the purpose of heating homes in the northern regions. Winters are harsh in these areas and it is very difficult to survive without keeping homes warm, so gas from other regions are diverted to the colder zones. The indigenous production of gas is declining every year. Gas reserves in the country have been depleting at the annual rate of 9%. The government is trying to overcome the gas shortage by undertaking exploration of new gas reserves within the country as well as by importing the commodity from abroad.

Recently, PM Imran Khan has asked the relevant authorities to expedite the process of granting exploration licences. If new gas fields are discovered, this will help reduce the need for importing the fuel, thus cutting the country’s import bill. The PM has also ordered completion of two new LNG terminals within the specified period to facilitate the storage of gas. Now Pakistan does not have enough storage capacity for gas. The authorities are concentrating on all aspects of the demand and supply of the fuel in order to provide relief to the people.

The shortage of gas bites particularly during winter months. The increasing shortage of the fuel, coupled with its diversion to colder places, has been causing problems for the people. This is being repeated year after year. Now in cities and towns, there is low pressure of gas due to which it has become difficult to prepare meals. In order to ensure better supply of the fuel to homes, the government has stopped supplying gas to non-export industries and CNG pumps for two and a half months. The stoppage of supply to CNG stations is creating problems for commuters. The gas shortage is affecting nearly all aspects of life, from industries to daily necessities.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 03, 2022.

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