The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) is facing significant challenges in maintaining a balance between gas supply and demand due to the annual decline in the country’s natural gas reserves.
Decline in Natural Gas Supply
Since the fiscal year 2017-18, there has been a 40% reduction in the supply of natural gas, equivalent to approximately 465 MMCFD. This decline has forced the company to adopt various strategies for gas distribution.
Load Management Plan
Under the load management plan approved by Pakistan’s Economic Coordination Committee, priority is given to domestic, commercial, and general industrial sectors.
- There is no gas load-shedding for the domestic sector, but gas supply is suspended from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM to maintain line pressure for the following day.
- Special focus is placed on ensuring gas availability during cooking hours.
Increased Demand in Balochistan
In Balochistan, gas demand surges during the winter months, as gas is used not only for cooking but also for heating homes. Sui Southern is taking all possible measures to meet this increased demand.
Restoration and Development Plans
To address the issues of low gas pressure and improve the distribution system, Sui Southern has launched an extensive restoration program:
- In the past two years, 2,200 kilometers of the gas distribution network have been restored, covering areas such as Thal, Shahdad Kot, Sukkur, Dera Bugti, and various parts of Karachi.
- Over the next three years, restoration of an additional 4,500 kilometers of the network is planned, with a focus on areas suffering from low pressure.
Restoration Efforts in Karachi
- The restoration of pipelines in Defence has been completed, while work in Lyari is 50% finished, with completion expected by June 2025.
- Restoration work is also underway in areas like North Nazimabad, North Karachi, Hyderabad, Hala, Sanghar, and Old Sukkur.
Conclusion
The decline in natural gas reserves is a major challenge, but Sui Southern Gas Company is actively working to modernize its distribution network and meet customer needs. These efforts are expected to improve gas delivery and address low pressure issues effectively.
