Production, distribution: Gas company told to submit data on Dec 22

SNGPL alleging that the gas supply to stations was resulting in low pressure for residential users.

ISLAMABAD:

The gas shortage that has brought residents of the twin cities onto the street will not end any time soon. The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday gave Sui Northern Gas Pipelines (SNGPL) seven days, until December 22, to submit gas distribution and gas load management data. The gas company had challenged the stay obtained by CNG stations in Islamabad on November 18, alleging that the gas supply to stations was resulting in low pressure for residential users.

On Thursday, Makhdum Ali Khan, representing 47 CNG stations in the capital, alleged that the company has artificially shaped the gas crisis in an attempt to mislead the court. SNGPL’s defendant responded that the company has all the data of gas distribution and load management, which can be submitted to the bench for perusal.

Gas shortage

According to a PPI survey, federal capital inhabitants in general and residents in sectors G-6, G-7, G-8, G-9, F-6 and I-8 in particular are facing enormous problems for the last few days due to low (and in some cases nonexistent) gas pressure.

Without the ability to cook meals, many have had to eat out which has upended their household budgets. Residents have reiterated that despite repeated complaints to Sui Gas, no action has been taken. The irony in the situation, as felt by residents, is despite being a “proudly declared nuclear state, we are being made to live as if we are still in the Stone Age”. Justice Riaz Ahmad Khan gave Sui Northern until December 22 to submit the data and adjourned the hearing.

*With additional input from PPI

Published in The Express Tribune, December 16^th, 2011.