Karachi Faces Severe Gas Shortages Amidst Freezing Temperatures
Reduced gas supply has severely intensified the cold-weather ordeal for Karachiites, as several neighbourhoods have endured a complete lack of gas for four consecutive days. With temperatures plummeting to a minimum average of 8.1 degrees Celsius, the city’s residents are grappling with freezing conditions, impacting daily life and increasing financial strain.
The ongoing crisis has seen homes left with cold kitchens and delayed breakfasts, forcing many to rely on costly LPG cylinders—a short-term arrangement adding to their economic burden. This recurrent issue has highlighted concerns regarding the gas utility’s infrastructure and distribution system.
The Impact of Reduced Gas Supply on Daily Life
Public frustration is palpable across the city. A resident from Gulistan-i-Jauhar questioned, “How long will Karachi tolerate a utility that can’t secure its own supply?” Similarly, a Nazimabad resident lamented the utility’s “tired narrative” each winter, emphasizing that residents remain “hostages of a broken system” until accountability and infrastructure upgrades are realized.
The Pakistan Peoples Party’s Sindh General Secretary, Senator Waqar Mehdi, has voiced deep concern over the persistent gas shutdowns, loadshedding, and critically low pressure reported across Sindh, particularly in Karachi. He urged the Prime Minister to take immediate notice and initiate strict action against those responsible for the ongoing suffering, highlighting that consumers still receive high bills despite unreliable service.
SSGC’s Explanation and Measures
The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has acknowledged the problem, attributing the service disruption to a reduction in gas supply from two fields. A company spokesperson stated that this shortfall amounts to approximately 45 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d).
To mitigate the impact, SSGC has taken measures such as suspending gas supply to Fauji Fertiliser and industries. The utility claims to be providing 28 MMcf/d more gas to domestic consumers this winter compared to last year. However, the severe drop in temperature has significantly affected the system line pack. The spokesperson affirmed that SSGC is monitoring the situation and that any restoration of gas from the fields will be immediately directed to domestic consumers. For more regional updates, check SindhNews.com.
The prolonged gas crisis underscores a critical challenge for Karachi’s residents, who continue to face hardship during the winter months. While the gas utility attempts to manage the shortfall, the public’s call for sustained and reliable service, alongside governmental intervention, remains strong.