KARACHI – The provincial capital is grappling with a severe gas crisis as both domestic and industrial consumers face prolonged outages, leading to widespread public outrage and demands for government intervention against Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC).
Citywide Blackouts Despite SSGC’s claims of improvement, gas load-shedding has intensified across almost every major neighborhood. Areas including Landhi, Orangi Town, Lyari, North Karachi, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, and the Old City Area report zero pressure. Residents complain that while official load-shedding was scheduled from 10 PM to 6 AM, gas is now frequently unavailable during daytime hours as well.
SSGC’s Stance vs. Reality A spokesperson for SSGC claimed that the situation is stabilizing after the company began receiving an additional 15 MMCFD from gas fields. The utility provider noted that it faced a massive 45 MMCFD shortfall just a day ago. However, sources within the sector reveal that a deficit of 30 MMCFD still persists.
The Public Outcry Frustrated citizens allege that the crisis is “artificial,” designed to force consumers toward expensive LPG. “Millions have been spent on laying new pipelines, yet there is no pressure in our stoves,” one resident lamented. The crisis has hit households, caterers, and small businesses hard, while local hotels and restaurants are profiting from the misery of families unable to cook at home.
