Gas suspension, low pressure test the patience of consumers

HYDERABAD:

The gas supply disruption and low pressure have worsened during the holy month of Muharram, testing the patience of citizens already suffering from rising gas and electricity prices. Complaints are mounting about prolonged periods of gas supply disruption, disrupting daily life and preparations for religious ceremonies.

Normally, gas supply is cut off between 10pm and 6am. According to recent reports, this disruption has now extended into the morning hours, compounding the difficulties during the holy month. This prolonged disruption has particularly affected households who are unable to prepare meals during this time and therefore have to resort to expensive alternatives such as restaurant meals or expensive beverages such as Kashmiri tea and coffee.

Businesses have not been spared from the situation either. Hotels, restaurants and cooking centres have had to deal with disruptions in their operations due to unreliable gas supplies and low pressure. This has not only affected their ability to serve customers but also put their economic viability at risk.

In response to the tragic incident in Preetabad, LPG shops and illegal filling stations have been forced to close. Citizens are now forced to resort to natural gas for cooking. However, frequent interruptions and inadequate pressure have made this alternative unreliable, putting a strain on household budgets and adding to residents’ frustration.

Reports from various parts of the city, including Heerabad, Tower Market and Liaquat Colony, show that even when gas supply is restored in the morning, the pressure remains low for several hours, disrupting daily life and preparations for Muharram majalis and processions. This situation continues despite assurances from local authorities that there will be no gas cuts during the holy month.