Hazara women block road over gas crisis

Demonstrators demand uninterrupted winter supply

QUETTA:

Scores of women from the Hazara community staged a sit-in outside the regional headquarters of the Southern Gas Company (SGC) in Quetta on Monday, protesting persistent gas shortages and alleged overcharging amid freezing winter conditions.

The demonstration, which lasted over six hours, saw protesters block Samungli Road, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area. Women participants highlighted the severe difficulties faced by households due to prolonged gas outages without prior notice, leaving residents unable to cook meals or keep homes warm.

"We are being billed as if gas is being supplied around the clock, while in reality we spend most of the day without it," said Kaneez Fatima, a protester. She emphasized the disproportionate impact on children, the elderly, and low-income families dependent on daily wages, who struggle to pay inflated bills when the supply remains erratic.

Protesters demanded immediate relief and fair billing practices, urging the SGC to ensure uninterrupted gas supply during the harsh winter months.

Following the blockade, SGC officials arrived at the protest site to engage with demonstrators. They assured residents that gas supply in affected neighborhoods would be improved and monitored closely throughout the winter season. Officials also pledged to review consumer complaints regarding excessive charges and address overbilling issues.

The protest reflects growing frustration among Quetta residents over irregular gas service, a problem affecting multiple areas across the city. Many households report enduring prolonged outages while continuing to receive hefty bills, intensifying hardship during sharply falling temperatures.

Community leaders called on the authorities to adopt long-term measures to ensure reliable gas distribution.