Summary:
Karachi is facing widespread disruptions due to low gas pressure, affecting households amid the first single-digit winter temperatures. Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGC) has attributed the issue to a 30 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) shortfall from a production field, exacerbated by a 57% decline in gas supply over the past five years. Citizens are resorting to costly alternatives, while SSGC implements load management and anticipates resolution soon.
Low Gas Pressure Plagues Karachi Homes Amid Winter Chill
Low gas pressure has significantly disrupted daily life for countless households in Karachi, coinciding with the city’s first single-digit temperatures of the winter season. The sudden drop in mercury has amplified the impact of inadequate natural gas supply from Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGC), forcing many to delay essential activities like breakfast preparation for students and office workers. This recurring winter challenge leaves residents struggling to cope with chilly winds and insufficient heating.
The recurring pattern of low gas pressure each winter highlights ongoing infrastructure and supply challenges. Citizens across various localities, including Defence Housing Authority and Saddar, have voiced strong complaints about the sharp decline in pressure over recent days. Many are now compelled to purchase expensive LPG cylinders as an alternative, despite the added cost during an already demanding period. “I woke up to barely a whisper of gas in the morning,” remarked one frustrated resident, while Sehrish Rehan from Saddar noted, “Expecting normal gas supply during winters in Karachi is just living in fool’s paradise.”
SSGC Acknowledges Low Gas Pressure Issues
SSGC has officially acknowledged the problem, stating that the utility is currently experiencing a shortfall of approximately 30 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) from one of its production fields. A spokeswoman for SSGC explained that this reduction stems from an unexpected ‘technical problem’ at the field, which has curtailed output and left the utility with less gas than required for normal distribution pressures. SindhNews.com reported on the growing frustration among consumers.
To manage this crunch, SSGC is implementing government-approved load management plans that prioritize domestic use. This includes the temporary shutdown of fertilizer plants and the enforcement of weekly industrial closures. The spokesperson added that the technical issue at the field is anticipated to be resolved by early next week, which should lead to an improvement in overall supply.
The ongoing challenges are underscored by a significant decline in gas availability. Over the past five years, SSGC’s supply has plummeted by 57 percent, from 1,156 mmcfd in 2018-19 to 660 mmcfd this year, widening the demand-supply gap. Furthermore, winter demand in Balochistan spikes from 60-80 mmcfd to 170-180 mmcfd, with SSGC currently delivering 180 mmcfd to sustain households in sub-zero conditions, adding to the system’s strain.
The persistent issue of low gas pressure severely impacts household cooking, heating, and the operation of gas-reliant appliances, placing additional burdens on families during the coldest months. While SSGC is taking measures to mitigate the current shortfall and expects the technical fault to be resolved, the broader trend of declining supply suggests that deeper, long-term solutions are critical to preventing recurring discomfort for Karachi residents.