Unannounced gas load-shedding provokes outcry

Scores of protesters block streets to vent anger at SSGC

QUETTA:

The provincial capital was thrown into disarray on Monday as citizens took to the streets in a vehement display of frustration over unannounced and prolonged gas load shedding.

A large number of protesters converged on Sariab Road, Magsi Chowk, and various parts of the city, to vent their anger against the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC).

There was no immediate response from the SSGC despite attempts. “Gas load shedding has made us crazy,” Noor Muhammad, one of the protesters, lamented.

He said despite repeated appeals and notices, the SSGC was reluctant to address the issue of unannounced and prolonged gas load shedding in the area. The protest caused the blockade of roads and the provincial capital witnessed the worst traffic jam.

Read Gas shortages likely to persist

 The protesters burnt tires and chanted full-throated slogans to mount pressure on the authorities to address the issue of gas load shedding in the area.

“We want justice," Noor Muhammad said. Like Noor, scores of protesters were demanding that the provincial and federal governments take notice of their protest and address the issue once and for all. Common citizens faced difficulties as a result of protest demonstrations staged by the people, which caused the blockade of roads.

They failed to reach their destinations on time. Especially, women, children, and aged people remained the worst sufferers of the protest demonstration.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 28^th, 2023.