As Karachi gears up for the holy month of Ramadan, residents will continue to experience gas shortages, with the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) implementing a new schedule to manage supply during Sehr and Iftar. Despite the arrival of warmer weather, uninterrupted gas availability remains a challenge, forcing many households to turn to costly liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as an alternative.
Gas Shortages Persist Despite Seasonal Shift
Many residents had hoped that the end of winter would bring some relief in terms of gas supply, but the issue persists. According to an SSGC spokesperson, Pakistan’s natural gas reserves are depleting at a rate of nearly 10% per year, further exacerbating the supply-demand gap. The growing energy crisis has made it difficult to ensure a stable gas supply to households, particularly during peak hours.
Ramadan Gas Supply Schedule
To ensure that citizens have access to gas for meal preparations during the holy month, SSGC has introduced a specific supply schedule. The revised schedule is as follows:
- Gas availability: 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM (for Iftar and dinner preparation) and 3:00 AM to 9:00 AM (for Sehr and breakfast preparation).
- Gas profiling (no supply): 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM and 10:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
While the initiative aims to facilitate cooking at essential meal times, many households are still worried about the impact of these restrictions on daily life. Those who rely on gas for routine cooking and heating may face significant inconveniences outside of the allocated hours.
The Growing Burden on Karachi’s Residents
The gas crisis has forced many households to seek alternative solutions, with LPG prices soaring due to increased demand. Additionally, small businesses, especially restaurants and food vendors, are expected to face operational difficulties during non-supply hours. Some citizens are also concerned about the unpredictability of gas pressure, which has historically varied even during designated supply hours.
Authorities Assure Efforts for Stability
SSGC has reassured the public that these measures are being taken to balance supply and demand while ensuring that essential cooking times remain unaffected. The company urges consumers to use gas responsibly and avoid wastage to help maintain adequate pressure during supply hours.
Conclusion
While the structured gas schedule provides some relief during Sehr and Iftar, Karachi’s residents must brace themselves for continued shortages and adapt accordingly. The ongoing energy crisis highlights the urgent need for long-term solutions to ensure a stable and sustainable gas supply in the future. Until then, households and businesses will have to navigate the challenges posed by these restrictions during Ramadan.
ALSO READ: Punjab Government’s Decision to Replace Male Teachers in Women’s Universities
