ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that the federal cabinet has approved the resumption of new domestic gas connections across the country, ending the ban imposed in 2021.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Malik said the decision was made in response to strong public demand, especially from residents of new housing schemes who were forced to rely on costly LPG cylinders and other alternative fuels.
He said both Sui companies had completed the procurement of meters and pipelines, and pending applications would be processed immediately once an official notification is issued.
Applicants will also be given an option to convert their requests to RLNG-based connections by paying a security fee set by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), the minister added.
Malik said the move would help reduce household fuel costs, providing some relief to the public amid rising inflation. While RLNG is more expensive than natural gas, he said, it is still 30–35% cheaper than LPG.
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The minister revealed that one bidding round for new gas exploration had been completed, and another would conclude soon. Efforts are also being made to attract foreign companies, including those from Turkiye, China, and the United States, for onshore and offshore exploration projects.
“By boosting local production, we aim to cut dependence on costly imports and ensure cheaper, local fuel for the people,” Malik said.
He further added that the government already has a surplus of RLNG and adequate electricity availability but is working to improve governance and long-term sustainability in the energy sector.
Cabinet Declares Climate, Agriculture Emergencies
Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the federal cabinet has declared both a climate emergency and an agriculture emergency, citing severe damage caused by recent floods across the country.
He said climate change is severely impacting Pakistan, with shifting weather patterns leading to more intense flooding. Poor protection of forests and blockage of natural waterways had worsened the problem over the years, he added.
The climate minister has been tasked to submit a detailed report within 15 days, after which the cabinet will form strategies to address climate challenges and prevent future disasters.
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Chaudhry said the recent floods had caused widespread destruction, especially in agriculture, resulting in huge financial and human losses. An agriculture emergency will help assess the damage to crops and determine how farmers can be compensated, he said.
The minister emphasized that tackling climate and agricultural issues requires close cooperation with provincial governments. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for an urgent meeting with all chief ministers, as well as representatives from Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, to coordinate relief and recovery efforts.
“This country belongs to all of us, and together we must overcome its challenges,” Chaudhry said.
Malik also confirmed that the prime minister is personally monitoring flood damage assessments and that the federal government will ensure maximum support for victims.
