Govt restores new gas connections after four-year suspension

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday formally launched the process of providing Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) connections to domestic consumers, ending a four-year ban on new household gas connections.

Speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister said the initiative fulfilled a long-standing public demand and demonstrated the government’s resolve to address everyday challenges faced by citizens.

The ban on new gas connections, imposed in 2021, had been introduced amid concerns over depleting natural gas reserves. As a result, many households were forced to rely on costlier alternatives such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for cooking and heating.

Shehbaz recalled that during the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government in 2022, his administration faced strong public pressure to restore gas connections. He added that the government subsequently released funds and developed the required infrastructure to extend RLNG supply to a large number of pending applicants nationwide.

He also acknowledged the support of coalition partners, including the PPP, MQM and BAP, for their cooperation in restoring the domestic gas connections. The prime minister concluded his remarks by praying for Pakistan’s progress and calling for continued hard work and dedication.