SNGPL officials said around 400,000 applications came under the fast-track category, while nearly 300,000 were submitted through the normal merit-based process. The massive number of applications immediately after the ban was lifted created significant operational pressure for the utility.
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The government had ended the long-standing restriction on new household gas connections last year, a move announced by the federal petroleum minister. Officials admitted that processing such a high volume of applications simultaneously has been a major challenge.
Under the fast-track scheme, SNGPL has installed about 29,000 new gas connections so far. Additionally, around 36,000 conversion cases were processed, with updated prepaid demand notices issued to consumers. In total, the utility has provided 64,000 new RLNG-based connections since the ban was lifted.
The surge in applications reflects the high demand for domestic gas and growing consumer reliance on natural gas for households. Authorities are working to speed up processing and ensure timely supply to meet public needs.
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The 700,000 applications show how eager people are for new gas connections. Fast-track and merit-based schemes are both under heavy pressure. SNGPL is working to keep up with the record demand. This surge highlights the importance of expanding gas infrastructure.
