Govt assures public of meeting gas demand in winter, pledges to ensure supply during mealtimes

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government would work to cover winter LPG needs and protect piped-gas supply during meal times, Dawn reported on Tuesday. He cited disruptions at Iranian border crossings, which have pushed LPG cylinder prices in the open market to Rs700-800 per kilogramme, and said alternative LNG arrangements were being pursued.

Pakistan’s LPG demand is about 2.4 million tonnes a year, while domestic output is roughly 2,000 to 2,500 tonnes; the minister said around half or more had previously arrived through the western border. He said the Engro and SSGC LPG terminals together hold about 14,000 tonnes, and that Pakistan State Oil, SSGC LPG and Pakistan LNG Limited had been directed to arrange bulk purchases to increase competition.