QUETTA : The federal government has banned new gas connections for domestic and commercial consumers across the country due to a continuous decline in local gas reserves and rising demand, following which the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has completely stopped issuing new connections in various areas of Balochistan, including Quetta.
Officials said the decision was taken in view of reduced local gas production and to ensure uninterrupted supply to existing consumers. The gas shortage intensifies during the winter season, and adding new consumers could put additional pressure on the existing system, they added.
Sources within SSGC confirmed that after the ban, all gas connection cases for new domestic and commercial applicants have been halted across Balochistan, and no new applications are being processed at present.
The decision is expected to severely affect citizens of Quetta and other cold regions where gas is considered a basic necessity. Sources said the government is considering a policy of providing connections through Re-Gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) as an alternative. However, demand for RLNG connections is likely to be high, which could place an additional financial burden on ordinary consumers.
According to energy experts, gas reserves in the country are depleting rapidly while demand continues to grow due to population increases and industrial requirements. This trend makes it necessary for the government to adopt alternative energy sources.
Local circles have demanded that the government formulate a special policy for people in cold areas, including Balochistan, so that basic needs can be met while providing appropriate facilities to new consumers.
