Pakistan plans new gas links, but at four times higher fees
After more than a decade, Pakistanis may finally see new domestic gas connections, but the move could come with a heavy financial burden. Officials confirmed that the government is preparing to end the 13-year ban, though applicants will face significantly higher charges and imported gas prices.
According to the Petroleum Division, a summary has been forwarded to the federal cabinet, seeking approval for around 120,000 new connections in the first phase.
The cost of each connection is expected to rise to between Rs40,000 and Rs50,000, while consumers would be billed at imported LNG rates, estimated at nearly Rs3,900 per mmBtu.
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Officials disclosed that priority will be given to individuals who previously deposited demand notices or paid urgent fees, but only after they sign affidavits pledging not to challenge the decision in court.
Currently, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) are struggling with existing demand.
SNGPL supplies gas for only six to nine hours daily in most households, while pending applications continue to mount. At present, more than 3.25 million requests remain unprocessed, including three million under SNGPL and 250,000 with SSGC.
