The Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) has decided to impose a ban on new gas connections across Pakistan. The decision will affect both domestic and commercial consumers, according to official sources.
The latest move by the Petroleum ministry comes amid rising energy costs and supply concerns. Officials say the decision is aimed at managing pressure on the gas distribution system.
The government had lifted the previous ban in October last year. That decision was made to address energy shortages and meet growing consumer demand. However, the situation has now changed due to the rising cost of imported fuel.
Sources said the Petroleum ministry had been issuing new gas connections based on Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG). Unlike traditional natural gas, RLNG is much more expensive. This has increased the financial burden on new consumers.
According to officials, gas bills for RLNG-based connections are nearly four times higher than older gas connections. This has made the service costly for many households and businesses.
The cost of obtaining a new gas connection has also increased sharply. The demand note fee was raised from Rs. 6,500 to Rs. 23,500. Consumers seeking priority installation were also paying an extra Rs. 25,000.
This means a consumer had to pay nearly Rs. 50,000 for a new RLNG-based gas connection. Many people have raised concerns over the high cost.
The federal government had earlier decided that all new gas connections would rely on imported RLNG. This policy was introduced because local natural gas reserves continue to decline.
Sources said RLNG tariffs are linked to global crude oil prices. This makes the cost unpredictable and often expensive for consumers.
The Petroleum ministry believes the new ban may help reduce financial pressure on the energy sector. It may also help control supply management in the short term.
Energy experts say the decision reflects Pakistan’s growing dependence on imported fuel. They warn that long-term solutions are needed to improve domestic gas production.
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The latest policy by the Petroleum ministry has created uncertainty for consumers waiting for new gas connections. Further details are expected in the coming days.
