Addressing Gas Supply Challenges: Insights from the Recent PAC Subcommittee Meeting
In a recent meeting of the subcommittee of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on the Petroleum Division in Islamabad, significant issues regarding Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) came to light. The committee, led by Naveed Qamar, scrutinized audit objections spanning over a decade, specifically from 2011-12 to 2022-23. One of the hottest topics was the diversion of Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) to the domestic sector during summer months, which was described by the Petroleum Division’s secretary as not resulting in any real system losses.
While the explanation surrounding RLNG diversion sought to ease concerns, the committee highlighted a much larger issue: SNGPL’s alarming failure to install gas meters even after collecting full payments from consumers. This revelation has left many questioning the company’s commitment to customer service.
According to the audit officials, a staggering 71,892 applications were submitted before November 27, 2021. Yet, in 3,028 cases, despite the service lines being laid, gas meters remained absent. Even more troubling, 14,000 consumers who paid urgent fees were left without any gas connections. This situation painted a concerning picture of negligence, as the audit officials pointed out that the company failed to process urgent fee cases during a ban on new connections, violating the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority’s (Ogra) established service standards.
The frustration of the PAC members was palpable. The committee’s convener articulated the sentiment shared by many consumers: “Those who trusted you and paid in advance are not at fault. This is sheer obstinacy, taking money first and installing connections at your convenience.” It’s hard to argue against this point; trust in utility companies is crucial for a well-functioning system, and such discrepancies could erode public confidence.
In light of these serious concerns, the subcommittee decided to send the issues back to the Departmental Accounts Committee for a more in-depth review. The hope is that these steps will lead not only to accountability but also to tangible improvements in service delivery.
As we continue to navigate challenges within our gas supply systems, it’s vital for consumers and stakeholders alike to stay informed and engaged. Transparency and accountability should be at the forefront of our expectations from service providers. By fostering open discussions and emphasizing responsible governance, we can build a more effective and trustworthy gas supply framework for everyone.
If you’re interested in staying updated on these developments and discussions surrounding effective service delivery, consider connecting with us at Pro21st, where we delve deeper into industry insights and consumer advocacy. Let’s keep the conversation going!
