Industry reacts to gas supply diversion to power sector

Suspension of gas supply to the general industry from Saturday afternoon by Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) to divert supply to power plants to meet the increasing demand threatens production and supply of various goods ahead of Eidul Azha, say representatives of the industry.

The situation has forced the manufacturing sector to close mills by sending workers on leave, they say.

“Suspending gas supplies all of a sudden on verbal orders and without any prior notice is sheer high-handedness with the industry, especially those engaged in food-related businesses. We strongly condemn this attitude,” Sheikhupura Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Adil Mehmood told the media on Sunday.

“We would have no objection had SNGPL told us in advance. But the way they have done it has really disturbed us as we are unable to procure oil for power generation due to holidays. Perhaps, we will also be unable to arrange this on Monday (the last working day ahead of Eid),” he explained.