CNG station workers extend strike

CNG officials say indifferent attitude by SNGPL causing great deal of problems for commuters.

BAHAWALPUR: The ongoing strike by CNG filling stations in and around the city has been extended for an indefinite period. CNG officials have said that the indifferent attitude of the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines (SNGPL) has caused a great deal of problems for the people and commuters.

“The closure of filling stations throughout the city has led to massive protests and road blocks as lines of vehicles can be seen gathering outside stations,” said a CNG filling station in-charge Rauf.  The movement of vehicles has almost come to halt and the city roads have been presenting a deserted look as commuters have been suffering a great deal of problems. Locals complained that several wagon and bus stands were closed due to the gas shortage.

The owners of the CNG filling stations were of the view that Sui Gas authorities were abusing their authority and had forced them into a corner. “They have forced us to continue with the strike because they aren’t willing to compromise on anything,” said station owner Latif Raja, adding that they would remain on strike till their problems were addressed.

Meanwhile commuters and the general public have expressed deep concern over the ongoing situation and criticised the government over their failure over placing any pressure on the SNGPL in the larger public interest.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 13^th, 2010.