Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik announced that the federal cabinet has approved the reopening of new gas connections across the country, lifting the ban that had been in place since 2021.
Speaking to the media alongside Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, he said the decision was made in response to strong public demand, particularly from residents of new housing schemes who had been forced to depend on LPG cylinders and other fuels.
He explained that both Sui companies had already completed procurement for meters and pipelines, and pending applications would be processed immediately once the official notification is issued.
Existing applicants would also have the choice to shift their requests to RLNG-based connections by paying OGRA’s prescribed security fee.
The minister stressed that the move reflects Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment to easing energy-related hardships.
While RLNG remains more expensive than domestic gas, he noted it is 30–35 percent cheaper than LPG, offering households some financial relief during inflationary times.
“We already have a surplus of RLNG and adequate electricity availability, but we are working to strengthen governance and sustainability in the sector,” he said.
Ali Pervaiz Malik added that one bidding round for domestic gas exploration had already been completed, with another close to finalization.
He further shared that international firms from Türkiye, China, and the United States are being invited to invest in both onshore and offshore exploration projects.
By boosting local production, he said, the government aims to reduce reliance on RLNG and provide people with cheaper, locally sourced fuel, while ensuring long-term sustainability and cutting down on costly energy imports.