The government has taken steps to address the ongoing electricity shortage by reallocating natural gas from the compressed natural gas (CNG) sector to the power generation sector.
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According to officials, 48 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of gas previously supplied to the CNG sector has been suspended. This decision is aimed at increasing gas availability for electricity production and easing pressure on the national power system amid rising demand.
Following the reallocation, the gas quota for the power sector has been increased from 108 MMCFD to 150 MMCFD. However, authorities acknowledged that despite the increase, the power sector continues to face a significant gas shortfall, reflecting ongoing supply-demand imbalances in the energy system.
The move is part of a broader gas load management strategy being implemented to prioritise essential consumption needs across the country. Under the plan, domestic users are being given priority access to gas during peak meal times to ensure household cooking needs are met.
Energy officials said the decision reflects efforts to manage limited gas resources more efficiently, particularly during periods of high electricity demand. The shift is expected to provide some relief to power plants dependent on gas-based generation, although challenges in supply constraints remain.
At the same time, the suspension of gas supply to the CNG sector is likely to impact transport fuel availability, especially in regions where CNG is widely used as an alternative to petrol and diesel.
The government has been working to balance competing demands from domestic consumers, transport services, and electricity producers, all of which rely heavily on natural gas supplies.
Officials maintain that prioritising the power sector is necessary to reduce electricity shortages and prevent further load-shedding, particularly during peak consumption periods.
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However, energy experts note that long-term solutions will require improvements in energy infrastructure, diversified fuel sources, and better management of gas reserves to ensure sustainable supply across all sectors.