Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to prepare a comprehensive gas load management plan for the upcoming winter season and take precautionary measures in advance amid uncertainty over LNG supplies.
The prime minister issued the directives while chairing a meeting, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Shehbaz instructed officials to formulate the gas load management plan, ensure timely implementation of necessary measures and launch a public awareness campaign regarding the plan. He also directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted gas imports in view of the prevailing regional situation.
The meeting was informed that domestic consumers would be given priority in the supply of locally produced gas, while re-gasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) would be prioritised for power generation and industrial consumers.
The meeting was held as authorities face difficulties in finalising the LNG import plan for the three winter months from December to February amid supply constraints linked to the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
The renewed conflict in the Middle East has disrupted key oil and gas transportation routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, while contributing to higher fuel prices.
In view of the challenging supply situation, gas companies and the Petroleum Division had requested at least 22 LNG cargoes for the three-month period. However, the energy task force, headed by Lt-Gen Zafar Iqbal, has committed to arranging only 10 to 12 cargoes, each of around 100 million cubic feet, on a best-effort basis through diplomatic and logistical channels.
The proposed LNG import plan will be submitted to the prime minister for approval, as each spot cargo involves an estimated cost of around $100 million and requires clearance from the Ministry of Finance and the State Bank of Pakistan.
Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reviewed the affairs of the National Highway Authority (NHA), including ongoing development projects on national highways, motorways and expressways.
The prime minister directed that all ongoing NHA projects be subjected to third-party audits to ensure transparency and accountability.
He also instructed authorities to develop a strategy for undertaking the construction of national highways, motorways and expressways through public-private partnerships.
