Gas shortage to hit Balochistan, Sindh

KARACHI: The Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC) of the Kunnar Pasakhi Deep Gas Field has announced an annual maintenance shutdown that would affect millions of gas consumers in Balochistan and Sindh.

Scheduled to commence on August 12 and extend over a 16-day period, the shutdown will entail a complete cessation of operations at the gas field for eight consecutive days.

There will also be two instances of partial shutdowns, each spanning four days.

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The Kunnar Pasakhi Deep Gas Field plays a pivotal role in supplying gas to the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), which serves the regions of Sindh, Balochistan, and the metropolitan hub of Karachi.

During the full shutdown phase, SSGC anticipates a significant reduction in gas availability, amounting to 107 million cubic feet per day (MMcfd). The subsequent partial shutdowns are estimated to lead to a shortage of 50 MMcfd during each four-day interval.

As the impending gas shortage threatens to trigger a domino effect of challenges, ranging from potential power blackouts to constrained water supplies and operational disruptions in various industries, local authorities and consumers are urged to adopt gas-conservation measures during this period of disruption.

In a bid to mitigate the impact on critical sectors, SSGC has pledged to provide alternative gas supplies to essential consumers. The company’s efforts aim to alleviate the strain on various sectors that heavily rely on consistent and reliable gas supply.

As the nation prepares for the upcoming maintenance shutdown, concerns about the repercussions of the gas shortage are mounting. Balancing the need for routine maintenance with the uninterrupted provision of crucial resources remains a complex challenge.

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