Sui Southern Announces Gas Supply Timings for Sindh and Balochistan
The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has announced fixed gas supply timings for Sindh and Balochistan in an effort to ensure better gas availability during the winter season. The move comes as gas demand rises sharply across the country due to colder weather, putting pressure on already limited gas resources.
According to SSGC, the decision has been taken under the directions of the Director General of Gas to maintain an uninterrupted and balanced gas supply during peak hours. The company aims to minimize public complaints related to low gas pressure and unannounced outages by introducing a clear daily schedule.
Fixed Gas Supply Schedule for Winter
As per the official announcement, gas will be supplied in Sindh and Balochistan from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
SSGC stated that the fixed schedule will help manage demand more effectively and ensure fair distribution of gas among residential consumers. The early morning and evening hours are considered the most critical periods, as households rely heavily on gas for cooking, heating, and other daily needs during winter.
The company added that uninterrupted gas supply during these hours is a top priority, especially for domestic users.
Rising Gas Demand During Winter
Every year, winter brings significant challenges for Pakistan’s gas sector. Domestic gas consumption increases due to the use of heaters and longer cooking hours, while supply remains limited.
Despite Sindh and Balochistan being gas-producing provinces, many areas face shortages and low pressure during winter. Urban centers, apartment buildings, and areas with old pipeline infrastructure are often the most affected.
SSGC acknowledged that managing gas demand during winter is a complex task and requires strict monitoring, planning, and cooperation from both officials and consumers.
Monitoring Low Gas Pressure Areas
SSGC has directed its operational teams to closely monitor areas that experience low gas pressure, especially during early morning hours.
According to the company, all regional offices have been instructed to discuss gas pressure issues in their daily morning briefings. Any complaint related to low pressure or supply disruption must be addressed immediately.
Field staff have been told to remain alert and ensure quick response times so that consumer inconvenience can be reduced during the peak winter season.
Strict Warning Issued to Zonal Heads
In a strong message, SSGC has warned that negligence in handling gas pressure issues will not be tolerated.
The company stated that strict action will be taken against zonal heads if complaints are ignored or not resolved in a timely manner. This directive highlights the importance of accountability and efficient management during winter, when gas-related complaints usually increase.
SSGC believes that holding senior officers responsible will improve service delivery and ensure better coordination at the local level.
Public Complaints and Past Issues
Gas shortages and low pressure are among the most common complaints from consumers every winter. Many households report that gas is either unavailable or extremely low during morning and evening hours.
In previous years, unannounced gas outages caused frustration, particularly among working families who depend on gas for daily cooking. The lack of clear schedules often made it difficult for consumers to plan their routines.
With the announcement of fixed timings, SSGC hopes to provide clarity and reduce confusion among the public.
Appeal to Consumers for Responsible Usage
Along with the supply schedule, SSGC has urged consumers to use gas responsibly.
The company advised the public to avoid gas wastage, ensure proper maintenance of appliances, and follow safety guidelines during winter. Illegal gas connections and misuse of gas were also highlighted as major contributors to low pressure issues.
SSGC requested citizens to report gas theft and leakages through official channels so that timely action can be taken.
Possible Increase in Gas Prices
Earlier reports suggested that gas prices for consumers in Sindh and Balochistan may increase in the near future.
SSGC has submitted a request to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) seeking an increase of Rs. 125.41 per MMBTU for the current financial year.
If approved, the average gas price in Sindh and Balochistan would rise to Rs. 1,783.96 per MMBTU. The proposal is currently under review, and no final decision has been announced yet.
The possible price hike has raised concerns among consumers, who are already facing high utility bills due to inflation and rising energy costs.
Economic Pressure on Households
Rising gas prices, combined with electricity tariff increases, have added to the financial burden on households across Pakistan.
Many families fear that higher gas prices, along with limited supply hours, could make winter even more challenging. Domestic consumers, particularly low- and middle-income groups, are the most affected by these changes.
Consumer rights groups have urged authorities to ensure affordability while managing supply shortages.
Government’s Role in Gas Management
The federal government has repeatedly stated that gas shortages are a national issue caused by declining domestic production and rising demand.
Authorities are exploring alternative solutions, including LNG imports and energy conservation measures, to bridge the supply gap. However, LNG prices remain volatile in the international market, adding further pressure on the energy sector.
The fixed gas supply schedule announced by SSGC is part of broader efforts to manage limited resources more efficiently during winter.
Expectations from the New Schedule
Consumers have welcomed the announcement but remain cautious about its implementation.
Many believe that the success of the fixed schedule depends on strict enforcement and continuous monitoring. Past experiences have shown that announced timings are not always followed, particularly in low-pressure areas.
SSGC has assured that it will closely monitor the situation and take corrective measures where needed.
Conclusion – Sui Southern Announces Gas Supply Timings for Sindh and Balochistan
The announcement of fixed gas supply timings by Sui Southern Gas Company marks an important step toward managing winter gas demand in Sindh and Balochistan.
With gas supply available daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, authorities aim to reduce complaints, ensure fair distribution, and provide relief to domestic consumers during peak hours.
Strict monitoring, accountability of zonal heads, and responsible gas usage by consumers will be key to the success of this plan. Meanwhile, the proposed gas price increase remains a major concern and will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
As winter intensifies, effective implementation of these measures will determine whether households experience stability or continued gas-related difficulties.
