KARACHI: The gas supply crisis would badly affect industrial production, exports and halt all economic activities and lead to massive layoffs. This was stated by Khalid Tawab, Chairman, All Pakistan Steel Merchant Association (APSMA) while expressing serious concern over the decision by the two gas utilities to stop supply to industries.
He said the economic activities which seemed to have gained some momentum after a considerable time when the Covid pandemic situation had improved would again be witnessing a downward position.
He lamented the announcement of both the gas utilities - SSGC and SNGPL without realizing the current economic situation which was already confronted with multiple challenges in the wake of power shortage, high utility charges, pathetic infrastructure and high petroleum prices resulting in exorbitant transport charges which are unaffordable.
To stop gas supply to industrial sector would cause huge losses to business community and industrial production ultimately diminishing our economic activities across the country and would lead to law and order situation, Khalid added.
He urged the finance ministry to facilitate foreign exchange requirement for LPG import, otherwise, curtailment of gas supply for residential, power sector and industry would be worsen than last winter.
He further asked to fill the demand supply gap by importing additional LPG as in winter season LPG demand would raise sharply consequently this would raise the price of LPG for consumers and result in making the commodity unaffordable.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2022
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