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Saturday April 27, 2024

Rawalpindi city relies heavily on gas cylinders

By Ibne Ahmad
January 23, 2024

Rawalpindi: As bone-chilling cold sweeps the country. Rawalpindi faces a similar plight. Winter’s grip intensifies, affecting both the atmosphere and daily life. Moderate to thick fog occurs in the morning hours.

Labourers unload gas cylinders from a truck at a market on the outskirts of Islamabad. — AFP/File
Labourers unload gas cylinders from a truck at a market on the outskirts of Islamabad. — AFP/File

“In our area, a mild cold wave is sweeping. Weather remains dry with a partly cloudy sky. The gas crisis has particularly hit the city hard, as people are facing acute food shortages as they are unable to cook,” says Dr. Fatima Batool.

“The people of Rawalpindi city are relying heavily on gas cylinders after the gas supply suspension. SNGPL officials could not provide any specific information regarding when the supply will be restored to ease the city dwellers’ suffering,” says Zegham Abbas, an engineer.

“As the gas supply was suspended without any prior notice, residents fell into a deep crisis in conducting their household chores. As many could not cook food, long queues have been seen in front of eateries since morning,” says Darian Haider.

“After several hours of extreme cold, residents experience some sunlight. The chill of winter persists despite the minor rise in temperature,” says Raza Mehdi. “The gas crisis has particularly hit the city hard, as people are facing acute food shortages as they are unable to cook. We hope the concerned department will fix the problem. Work is currently underway and gas supply restoration is evident in certain areas. However, there is a noticeable reduction in gas pressure,” says Shakir Hussain.

“With no gas coming into the city, many have resorted to eating out, leading to crowded eateries and roadside food stalls. Some reports indicate price hikes, with vendors charging extra under the pretext of using cylinder gas for cooking,” says Nade Ali.