Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik announced on Wednesday that the federal cabinet has approved the resumption of new gas connections across Pakistan, ending the ban imposed in 2021. The decision, he explained, was made in direct response to rising public demand for relief in energy access. According to the Associated Press of Pakistan, this step marks a major shift in government energy policy.
Relief for Newly Developed Housing Areas
The minister highlighted that the government’s decision will particularly benefit residents in newly developed housing areas. Many of these families had been compelled to rely on expensive LPG cylinders and alternative fuels due to the ban. With the approval of new domestic connections, these households will now have access to piped gas, easing daily living costs and providing reliable energy for essential domestic needs.
Preparations by Sui Companies Underway
Malik assured the public that both Sui Northern and Sui Southern companies had already completed the necessary procurement processes for gas meters and pipelines. Once the official notification is issued, the companies will immediately begin processing thousands of pending applications. The minister emphasized that the government was committed to removing obstacles swiftly to ensure people receive timely access to new gas connections.
Option for RLNG-Based Connections
The petroleum minister further informed that existing applicants would be allowed to convert their requests into Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG)-based connections. By paying a prescribed security fee to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), applicants can secure RLNG supply. Although RLNG is more expensive than natural gas, he explained, it remains significantly cheaper than LPG cylinders, offering families an affordable and cleaner alternative.
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Prime Minister’s Commitment to Energy Relief
Highlighting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Malik said the government’s decision reflects its broader strategy to ease the energy burden on citizens. The minister explained that RLNG is around 30 to 35 percent cheaper than LPG, reducing household fuel expenses at a time when families are already struggling with inflation. He emphasized that the measure would provide much-needed relief nationwide and stabilize household energy affordability.
Surplus RLNG and Energy Sector Governance
The minister pointed out that Pakistan currently has a surplus of RLNG and a sufficient electricity supply. However, he added, the government is focused on ensuring governance and long-term sustainability in the energy sector. Strengthening transparency and management within energy institutions, Malik stressed, was critical for building public confidence and ensuring citizens gain maximum benefits from improved fuel availability and reduced energy costs.
Boosting Domestic Gas Exploration Efforts
Ali Pervaiz Malik revealed that one bidding round for new domestic gas exploration projects had already concluded successfully, with another scheduled to finish soon. He said that enhancing local exploration is a vital step in Pakistan’s roadmap to energy security. By developing indigenous resources, the government aims to reduce dependence on imports, particularly costly RLNG, and instead rely on cheaper and locally available natural gas.
Attracting International Investors for Exploration
To further strengthen the sector, the petroleum minister noted that Pakistan is actively engaging with international companies from Turkiye, China, and the United States. These partnerships, he explained, would boost both onshore and offshore exploration. The government hopes that foreign investments and technical expertise will accelerate local gas production, gradually reducing import bills and ensuring energy affordability for millions of Pakistani households.
Focus on Long-Term Energy Sustainability
Malik reiterated that the government’s primary goal is to achieve sustainability in the energy sector. This involves gradually reducing reliance on imported fuels and shifting toward indigenous resources. By doing so, Pakistan can secure long-term energy independence while lowering costs for its citizens. The minister underlined that such measures will stabilize the economy and reduce pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Federal Government’s Response to Floods
Turning to natural disasters, Malik informed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is personally supervising a comprehensive damage assessment following recent floods. The federal government, he assured, is working in close consultation with provinces to ensure victims receive maximum relief. Malik reaffirmed the state’s responsibility to provide full support, including financial aid, infrastructure rehabilitation, and energy access for affected communities struggling with post-disaster recovery.