In a recent meeting, Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has reportedly proposed amendments to the gas supply priority order, aiming to accord top priority to the industry. The rationale behind this move is the belief that prioritising industry will enhance industrialisation process in the country, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
There is no denying that industrialisation is essential for bolstering economic growth and providing job opportunities, especially for youth. The importance of a thriving industrial sector cannot be overstated in a world where nations compete for technological advancement and economic prowess. However, the discussion should not pivot solely on changing the priority order but on how to effectively address the issue of gas shortages in a comprehensive manner. The country is currently grappling with critical gas shortages, leading to unannounced power outages in certain areas, particularly in the winter season.
Residential consumers, who currently hold top priority in gas supply order, are already bearing the brunt of this scarcity. It is imperative to acknowledge challenges faced by domestic consumers and recognise the necessity of finding a balanced solution that ensures both industrial and domestic needs are met. Rather than reshuffling the priority order, the focus should be on implementing measures to address root causes of gas shortages. There was a time when our country was self-sufficient in gas. However, over the years, mismanagement, theft and inefficient use of this valuable resource and lack of exploration have brought us to this point. The consequences are evident today, with Pakistan compelled to import gas, in turn, putting a strain on precious foreign exchange reserves.
This shift from self-sufficiency to import dependency highlights the pressing need for a paradigm shift in energy management. It is imperative for us to redirect focus towards exploiting indigenous resources more efficiently, implementing stringent conservation measures, and investing in modern technologies to harness full potential of domestic gas reserves. In doing so, Pakistan cannot only reduce its reliance on costly imports but also foster sustainable economic growth and energy security for the future.
