The SNGPL gas supply schedule has been reduced to just six hours a day, raising concerns among households across Pakistan. The decision by Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited) comes amid a continuing natural gas shortage and pressure issues in the distribution network.
Officials say the revised timetable is not a long-term policy change but a response to immediate supply constraints. Under the new arrangement, gas is being provided mainly during morning breakfast hours and evening dinner hours, while supply remains suspended during the afternoon.
Why has SNGPL reduced gas supply hours
According to energy sector officials, Pakistan’s gas system is currently under severe strain. The main reason behind the reduced SNGPL gas supply is the ongoing shortfall between demand and available supply.
The situation has been made worse by irregular liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. These imports play a key role in balancing the national gas system, especially during high-demand winter and early spring periods. When LNG shipments are delayed or reduced, the pressure across the distribution network drops.
Officials also pointed to technical limitations in the pipeline system. They said maintaining stable gas pressure throughout the day has become difficult. As a result, uninterrupted supply is no longer possible for all hours.
To manage the crisis, SNGPL has shifted to a controlled distribution model. This ensures gas is available during peak usage times when households need it the most.
Impact on households and daily life
The reduced SNGPL gas supply schedule is already affecting routine domestic activities. Families are adjusting cooking times and relying more on alternative energy sources such as LPG cylinders and electric appliances.
Morning and evening peak hours are now the only stable supply windows in many areas. This has created pressure on households, especially in urban centers where gas demand is higher.
Consumers have also reported inconvenience due to sudden pressure drops, even during the allocated supply hours. In some cases, gas flow remains weak, making it difficult to cook efficiently.
Energy experts warn that continued shortages could further increase reliance on expensive alternatives, adding financial pressure on middle and low-income households.
Authorities urge careful usage
Officials have urged consumers to use gas carefully and avoid unnecessary consumption during supply hours. They also emphasized that the current arrangement is designed to distribute limited resources fairly across the network.
Energy authorities are reportedly exploring options to stabilize supply, including better LNG management and improved coordination of imports. However, they acknowledge that immediate relief may not be possible until supply conditions improve.
For now, households across the country are expected to continue operating under the restricted timetable. The focus remains on managing demand within available supply limits.
