Wed Dec 25 20:50:33 UTC 2024: **Pakistan Faces Widespread Gas Shortages Amid Pipeline Damage and Cold Weather**
QUETTA/RAWALPINDI/KARACHI, PAKISTAN—A damaged gas pipeline in Balochistan and increased demand due to plummeting temperatures have triggered widespread gas shortages across Pakistan, impacting millions.
A major 18-inch gas pipeline supplying several areas in Balochistan was damaged near Akhtarabad Western Bypass, disrupting service to Kuchlak, Ziarat, Bostan, Yaru, Karbala, Harmizai, Pishin, and parts of Quetta. The cause of the damage—whether accidental or sabotage—remains unclear. Repair crews are on site.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi is experiencing a severe gas crisis, with 70% of the city affected. Numerous neighborhoods are reporting complete gas outages, impacting cooking and daily life. The situation has forced the closure of many local bakeries.
Karachi is also facing significant gas shortages, with residents resorting to expensive LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) due to frequent and prolonged load shedding. Scheduled LPG outages are exacerbating the problem, with many areas experiencing low pressure or complete outages despite the schedules. The city’s gas crisis has worsened with the onset of winter.
First Piper 