SWABI: Consumers on Tuesday blasted the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) officials for subjecting them to gas outages and low pressure with the start of cold weather.

They aired their grievances during an open kutchery called by the SNGPL officials here.

However, officials failed to satisfy consumers on why they were being subjected to outages and low pressure.

Waqasullah Shinwari, SNGPL general manager for Mardan region, was also present.

Ironically, the day the SNGPL officials called open kutchery, consumers confronted prolonged suspension of gas supply.

The consumers also demanded of the SNGPL authorities to lift ban on new gas connections. However, the officials said it was not in their power and the decision rested with the federal government.

On the occasion, Masood Jabbar, former deputy general secretary of Qaumi Watan Party, said the authorities should close the CNG filling stations to spare gas for the households.

The SNGPL officials assured the consumers that they would take all-possible steps to resolve their problems on priority.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party on Tuesday emphasised that free and fair elections were necessary to put the country on the path of sustainable democratic journey and development.

Javid Inqilabi, PPP’s divisional general secretary, told a workers’ gathering that they should reach out to voters as soon as possible, informing them about the party manifesto, its priorities, and plan to work for people’s welfare.

Published in Dawn, November 22nd, 2023