PESHAWAR: The business community has voiced strong opposition to the proposed suspension of gas supply to CNG filling stations and industries for the upcoming two months. Traders have called on the government and SNGPL to reconsider, arguing that this decision would lead to significant financial losses for businesses and escalate unemployment in the region.
Reports indicate that SNGPL plans to halt gas supply to these sectors in December and January as part of winter gas load management—a move deemed unacceptable by Fazal Moqeem Khan, President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Business representatives pointed out that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa produces surplus natural gas, and under Article 158 of the constitution, the province has the right to prioritize its own resources. They warned that cutting off gas to CNG and industrial sectors would economically harm the business community.
Fazal Moqeem also highlighted that 100 mmcfd of gas was previously allocated for power plants in Hayatabad, Gadoon, and Hattar Industrial Estates, and questioned its current usage. He added that industries consume only 40 mmcfd of gas, yet a suspension is being considered, which could severely damage trade, business, and export activities.
The SCCI president urged the government and SNGPL to revise the proposal, emphasizing that the CNG and industrial sectors are major employers in the province. He warned that shutting down these sectors would exacerbate unemployment, negatively impacting the local and national economy. Moqeem also noted that if the proposal moves forward, the SCCI, along with CNG and industry stakeholders, would consider protests and legal action.
