ISLAMABAD: The government is considering restoring new Domestic LNG connections if liquefied natural gas supplies from Qatar return to normal in the coming weeks.
Officials said the decision depends on the recovery of LNG exports from Qatar. If the supply situation improves, the suspension on new household connections could be lifted by September.
The ban on Domestic LNG connections was introduced in May after Qatar suspended LNG exports due to disruptions caused by attacks on its production facilities during the US-Iran conflict.
The interruption in LNG exports affected several countries that depend on Qatari gas supplies. According to reports, the disruption has now been extended until the end of August 2026.
Sources in the Petroleum Division said the government is closely monitoring the situation. They added that the suspension is expected to end once Qatar officially withdraws its force majeure declaration.
Force majeure is a legal provision used when extraordinary events prevent contractual obligations from being fulfilled. Officials believe that once this status ends, LNG supplies will gradually return to normal.
If imports stabilize as expected, authorities plan to resume issuing new Domestic LNG connections from September. However, the final decision will depend on the availability of sufficient gas supplies.
The suspension has affected many households waiting for new LNG connections. Applicants have been unable to receive approvals since the restrictions were introduced earlier this year.
Government officials said the temporary ban was necessary to manage available LNG resources during the supply shortage. The measure was intended to ensure that existing consumers continued receiving gas without major disruptions.
Pakistan relies heavily on imported LNG to meet growing energy demand, especially during periods of high consumption. Any interruption in global LNG supplies can directly impact domestic gas distribution.
Energy experts say stable LNG imports are important for maintaining reliable gas services across the country. They also note that supply disruptions often force governments to delay new consumer connections.
Authorities remain hopeful that Qatar’s export operations will return to normal after August. A stable supply chain would allow Pakistan to ease restrictions and restart pending connection approvals.
The government has not yet announced an official date for lifting the suspension. However, Petroleum Division sources indicated that September remains the likely target if supply conditions improve.
In other news read more about LESCO Ends Free Electricity Benefit for Senior Officers After Nearly 30 Years
The possible restoration of Domestic LNG connections will provide relief to thousands of households waiting for new gas services. Officials said further updates will be issued once Qatar confirms the resumption of regular LNG exports and supply levels return to normal.
