ISLAMABAD:
The federal cabinet has approved the long-awaited resumption of new gas connections nationwide, ending a ban that had been in place since 2021.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, briefing reporters on Wednesday, said the decision was taken in response to mounting public demand and the hardships faced by households relying on costly LPG cylinders and alternative fuels.
He confirmed that both Sui Northern and Sui Southern companies had already completed procurement of meters and pipelines, and would begin processing pending applications immediately after the official notification is issued. Residents of newly developed housing schemes are expected to benefit the most from the move.
According to Malik, existing applicants would also be given the option to switch their requests to RLNG-based connections by paying the security fee set by OGRA. While RLNG remains more expensive than natural gas, the minister noted it is still 30 to 35 percent cheaper than LPG, providing families some relief in an inflation-hit economy.
“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made it clear that easing the energy burden on citizens is a priority,” Malik said, adding that the government was working to improve both governance and sustainability in the energy sector.
The minister also highlighted efforts to boost local gas exploration. One bidding round has already been completed, with another nearing conclusion. Talks are also underway with international energy firms from Turkiye, China, and the United States for both onshore and offshore exploration projects.
“Our aim is to gradually reduce reliance on costly imports and expand the use of indigenous fuel resources,” Malik explained. “This will not only cut costs but also strengthen energy security for the country.”
Malik further stated that Pakistan currently has a surplus of RLNG and stable electricity supply, but stressed that long-term solutions lie in increasing domestic production.
Turning to the ongoing flood crisis, he said Prime Minister Sharif was personally overseeing damage assessments in coordination with provincial governments. “The federal government will fulfill its responsibility to provide maximum relief to victims,” he assured.
