In a major relief for millions of households, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially ended a four-year ban on new natural gas connections across Pakistan. The move addresses a critical public need that had left many families relying on more expensive alternatives for cooking and heating.
The ban was initially put in place due to the country’s rapidly depleting natural gas reserves. With no new connections available since 2021, people were forced to turn to costlier options like LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) cylinders, increasing their monthly expenses.
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To solve this long-standing issue, the government has launched a new initiative that will use Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG). This is natural gas that is imported in a liquid form by ship, then converted back into gas for distribution through the existing pipeline network.
At a ceremony in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the challenges of the past, recalling the “immense pressure” his previous government faced. He stated that the necessary infrastructure and funds have now been arranged to roll out RLNG across the country, finally fulfilling a major public demand and easing the daily lives of countless families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly has the government announced?
The government has lifted a ban that prevented new household gas connections from being issued for the last four years. People can now apply for a new connection again.
2. Why was there a ban in the first place?
The ban was imposed because Pakistan’s own natural gas reserves were running low and could not support adding new consumers to the system.
3. What is RLNG?
RLNG stands for Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas. It is natural gas that is super-cooled into a liquid for easy transport via ships from other countries. Once it reaches a terminal in Pakistan, it is warmed back into a gas and fed into the national pipelines.
4. Will this new gas be more expensive?
RLNG is typically more expensive than locally produced natural gas because it involves international shipping and processing. The exact tariff for new domestic consumers will be clarified by the gas utility companies.
5. How do I apply for a new gas connection?
You will need to contact your local gas distribution company (e.g., SNGPL or SSGCL) to get the latest application process, required documents, and associated costs.
