Islamabad (Ehsan Bukhari, Special Correspondent) – As winter approaches, citizens in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and several other regions of Pakistan are facing a significant drop in natural gas pressure. Allegations are emerging that this shortage is not entirely due to seasonal demand but may be linked to deliberate actions by the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL).
Sources claim that SNGPL, in alleged collusion with private RLNG (Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas) suppliers, has launched a covert operation to reduce gas pressure for domestic users, particularly in non-VIP and densely populated areas, in order to push consumers toward new RLNG connections. Reports suggest that private employees hired by the gas department have been tampering with main gas valves in various parts of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, intentionally reducing supply to households.
Despite multiple complaints submitted to the General Manager of SNGPL for the twin cities, residents say no action has been taken. Many areas, including Banni, Asghar Mall, Mohanpura, Arjun Nagar, Kashmiri Bazaar, and Railway Scheme 3 in Rawalpindi, continue to suffer from low or non-existent gas pressure during peak hours. Meanwhile, VIP sectors remain unaffected, raising further suspicion.
Citizens are outraged, claiming they have discovered that the gas shortages are not entirely due to system overloads or infrastructure issues, but part of a calculated move to benefit RLNG companies. The resulting hardship means schoolchildren and office workers are being forced to leave home without breakfast due to the unavailability of gas in the mornings.
When contacted for comment, GM Islamabad Mr. Adnan stated he was unaware of the issue but would look into it. Attempts to contact the GM Rawalpindi were unsuccessful as he did not answer phone calls.
Public outrage is growing, with calls for a formal investigation into the alleged manipulation of gas supply and favoritism towards RLNG suppliers at the expense of ordinary consumers. As the winter season deepens, pressure is mounting on authorities to address the crisis before it worsens.