CNG body rejects loadshedding plan

RECORDER REPORT

ISLAMABAD: The All Pakistan CNG Association (APCNGA), while rejecting three-day gas load shedding plan for CNG stations, has urged the government to revise it according to the agreement with the CNG industry.

Ghiyas Abdullah Paracha, talking to reporters here on Friday after attending the meeting of APCNGA Central Executive, said that members of the body have requested the government to revise the gas load shedding plan for CNG sector.

He said that the gas load management plan would severely affect the masses as majority of the public transport is using CNG. He said that approximately 35 million vehicles are running on CNG in the country and the 3-day CNG closure cannot be accepted, as CNG industry has to face immense pressure from consumers, public and transporters.

"People go harsh on refusal for CNG, and quarrels are a routine on CNG stations, which is harmful for our business. This way, the hardships of public will be increased, and our business will be ruined" he added.

He said that the CNG industry had given a gas load management plan to the government but it refused to implement it.

Paracha said that closure of CNG stations for three days would force the government to import more petroleum products, which would disturb Pakistan's already deteriorating balance of payments situation. If the government keeps supplying uninterrupted gas to CNG stations it would save billions of rupees, he added.

"But we don't know why some officials are against this formula, while the decided equitable formula is still to be acted upon.

"We have sent a letter and asked Petroleum Minister Dr Asim Hussain for a meeting on Monday. We will try to resolve our issue in this meeting.

We have firm hope that this issue will be resolved, otherwise we will announce our further action plan," Paracha said.