EVERY winter, as the chill sets in across the country, domestic consumers find themselves grappling with the issue of gas shortages. This recurring problem has become an unfortunate ritual, disrupting the daily lives of millions. Despite repeated reassurances from the government, the crisis continues to persist, leaving many questioning the effectiveness of measures meant to tackle the problem. While this year’s situation appears to be somewhat improved, as highlighted in a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, more decisive and long-term actions are urgently needed to ensure a reliable and continuous gas supply throughout the winter season.
While LNG import is essential in bridging the supply-demand gap, its high cost adds significant strain to the economy. In our view, the real issue lies in the underutilization of local gas reserves. To reduce dependency on imports, there is an urgent need to ramp up exploration efforts and unlock the full potential of gas reserves. This can provide not only a more affordable solution but also a long-term fix to the country’s energy needs. Equally pressing is the issue of gas leakages and theft, which have been major contributors to the problem. Leakages in the gas distribution system not only reduce the overall supply but pose serious safety hazards. It is vital that the authorities take immediate steps to address these issues. A comprehensive audit of the gas infrastructure, coupled with prompt repairs and an effective monitoring system, is necessary to minimize wastage and enhance safety. The public often voices concerns about gas leakages and other supply-related issues, but these complaints are rarely addressed with the urgency they deserve. The lack of resources and manpower within the concerned authorities can be blamed for this apathy. However, any excuse in this regard is not acceptable. A more robust and responsive complaint management system needs to be put in place, one that ensures quick action is taken whenever issues are reported.
