Govt extends ban on new domestic gas connections amid shortage

Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has extended its ban on new domestic gas connections indefinitely, while restrictions have also been imposed on commercial connections, including those for tandoors and hotels, sources said.

Thousands of consumers are reportedly still waiting for connections despite paying urgent processing fees.

Sources said the supply of re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) had been disrupted, while the shortfall in the existing gas network had also increased.

Gas demand has risen sharply with the onset of winter, creating supply challenges for domestic consumers as well, the sources added.

Despite the growing demand, the company has extended the suspension of new domestic connections for an indefinite period.

SNGPL officials said the ban had been imposed by the Petroleum Division. They said the restoration of new connections was expected only after the Iran-US war ended.