Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has extended its ban on new domestic gas connections indefinitely. The decision comes as disrupted RLNG supplies increase the country’s existing gas shortage.
The suspension also affects other connections, including commercial supplies for hotels and tandoors. Thousands of consumers are still waiting for connections despite paying urgent processing fees.
The situation has become more difficult as winter approaches. Household demand for gas has increased, putting additional pressure on the existing supply system.
Why SNGPL Has Extended the Ban
The main reason behind the extension is the disruption in regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) supplies. The disruption has increased the shortfall across the existing gas network.
With temperatures falling, demand from domestic consumers has also risen. Authorities are finding it difficult to meet the requirements of existing customers.
SNGPL officials have stated that the Ministry of Petroleum imposed the suspension. They indicated that new connections may resume after the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States ends.
The government initially suspended new gas connections in April 2026. That decision also followed disruptions in RLNG supplies.
However, the latest extension means applicants must continue waiting. No specific date has been announced for restoring new connections.
Commercial and Domestic Consumers Face Delays
The extended suspension is not limited to household connections. Commercial applications for hotels and tandoors have also been stopped.
Thousands of applicants have already paid urgent fees. Despite these payments, they have not received their connections.
Consumers currently have no confirmed timeline for receiving the service. The restoration of connections depends on improvements in the country’s gas supply situation.
The suspension could create additional difficulties for households preparing for winter. Businesses relying on piped gas may also need alternative arrangements.
LPG Becomes an Expensive Alternative
Households without piped gas often rely on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). However, LPG prices have also increased ahead of winter.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has set the official price of an 11.8-kilogram domestic cylinder at Rs. 3,470.09 for November.
This represents an increase of Rs. 173.86 compared with October. However, market prices are reportedly much higher in several areas.
LPG is reportedly selling for around Rs. 600 per kilogram in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and other parts of Pakistan.
At this rate, an 11.8-kilogram cylinder costs approximately Rs. 7,080. This is around Rs. 3,610 above the official price.
Winter Expenses Could Increase for Families
Families using two LPG cylinders each month could face higher expenses. At reported market rates, two cylinders would cost approximately Rs. 14,160.
At the official price, the same quantity would cost around Rs. 6,940. This creates a significant difference for households already managing winter expenses.
The government is also reviewing its LPG policy as prices continue rising. However, consumers remain concerned about the availability and affordability of alternative fuels.
When Will New Gas Connections Resume?
SNGPL has not announced a specific date for restarting new connections. Officials have linked the restoration to improvements in RLNG supplies.
The situation remains challenging as winter demand continues increasing. Consumers who have already paid urgent fees must wait for further announcements.
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Until supplies improve, households and businesses may continue facing delays. The extended suspension also highlights the pressure on Pakistan’s existing energy supply system.
