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The government has begun preparations for a major action plan to address the ongoing gas crisis in the country.
According to details surfaced on Tuesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to carry out reforms in the energy sector and has stressed the need for improved institutional coordination. A comprehensive framework has been prepared for the supply, pricing and effective management of gas demand.
On the prime minister’s instructions, the establishment of a National Coordination and Management Council (NCMC) has been approved, under which a coordinated system will be introduced. The measures of the Power Task Force will also be brought under the scope of this council.
PM Shehbaz has sought a detailed briefing from the Petroleum Secretary, while instructions have been issued for the submission of a progress report on gas reforms by May 8. It has further been directed that a monthly report on gas reforms be presented to the Prime Minister.
It has been decided that new RLNG connections will remain temporarily suspended until improvement in gas supply. Weekly reports have been sought from exploration and production companies for additional gas procurement, including Mari, OGDC, PPL, MOL and UEP.
The government has also resolved to accelerate emergency measures to increase gas availability and to formulate a new strategy for balancing demand and supply.
Further directions have been issued for major changes in planning domestic gas demand, alongside a review of gas load-shedding timings and efforts to reduce losses.
A plan has been prepared to promote the use of cheaper local gas instead of costly imported gas, while gas prices have been kept unchanged. A strategy is also under formulation to generate additional revenue.
Ogra and the relevant task force have been directed to assess the financial impact of these measures.
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