KARACHI: Widespread and unannounced gas outages by Sui Southern Gas Company have severely disrupted daily life across Karachi, leaving residents struggling to manage basic household needs despite official claims of uninterrupted supply during designated meal hours.
The utility maintains that gas is being provided to domestic consumers from 6am to 10:30pm. However, citizens across multiple localities report persistent and unpredictable load-shedding over the past two weeks, often coinciding with peak cooking times.
The shortages have forced many residents to seek alternatives, with long queues observed at roadside eateries and naan shops. LPG outlets also witnessed heavy rush, though limited availability further compounded the crisis.
Households, particularly women, bore the brunt of the disruption, facing difficulties in preparing meals. Many reported cancelling family plans or relying on outside food due to the sudden outages. Students, especially those preparing for ongoing examinations, also faced challenges as daily routines were disrupted.
Residents expressed frustration over the lack of prior notice. Complaints poured in from areas including Gulzar-i-Hijri, Gulberg, Shah Faisal Colony and Sultanabad, where people criticised the gas utility for failing to communicate supply interruptions.
In response, SSGC stated that gas pressures remain stable and “line pack” levels are adequate. The company attributed challenges to limited Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas availability, adding that it is balancing supply between domestic consumers, the power sector and fertiliser industry to maintain overall stability.
Political leaders also condemned the situation. Ali Khurshidi of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan criticised the utility’s performance, calling the crisis a sign of inefficiency. Meanwhile, Fauzia Siddiqui of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf termed the situation evidence of governance failure, highlighting ongoing issues of water shortages, electricity outages and rising utility costs.
As public anger grows, citizens are demanding immediate restoration of reliable gas supply along with improved communication and infrastructure management to ease the burden on Karachi’s residents.
Story by Tahir Siddiqui
