Pakistan Lifts Ban on New Domestic Gas Connections — PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Major Relief Decision
In a landmark decision, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially Lifts Ban on New Domestic Gas Connections across Pakistan. This move by the federal government brings long-awaited relief to millions of citizens and marks a major milestone in the country’s energy accessibility reforms for 2025.
The announcement, made in collaboration with Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and the Ministry of Energy, signals a strong commitment to restoring public convenience and expanding Pakistan’s domestic gas infrastructure.
🔷 Background — Why Pakistan Imposed a Ban on Domestic Gas Connections
Pakistan had suspended new domestic gas connections for several years due to natural gas shortages and imbalances in supply and demand. Gas reserves in Sindh and Balochistan were depleting, while the demand from Punjab and northern regions continued to rise rapidly.
The Sui Northern Gas (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas (SSGC) companies were instructed to halt new connections for residential, commercial, and industrial users until stability was achieved.
This left thousands of families without access to affordable gas, forcing them to rely on LPG cylinders, wood stoves, or electric cookers, which were both expensive and unsafe alternatives.
🔶 PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Energy Reform Vision 2025
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has consistently emphasized that affordable energy is a basic right, not a privilege. Under his leadership, the government launched the Energy for All Initiative 2025, focusing on four key pillars:
- Restoration of domestic gas access to every region.
- Expansion of the pipeline infrastructure nationwide.
- Introduction of smart meters to reduce gas theft.
- Prioritization of household consumers over commercial demand.
“Every Pakistani family deserves reliable energy access. The government will ensure that no home remains without gas,” said PM Shehbaz during the announcement.
🔷 Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) Thanks the Prime Minister
Following the official notification, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) issued a public message thanking the Prime Minister for his decisive leadership in removing the ban.
The message featured the Prime Minister’s image with the slogan:
“Shukriya, Wazir-e-Azam Shehbaz Sharif — Gharilo Gas Connections Par Aaid Pabandi Ka Khatma”
SNGPL confirmed that it will immediately begin processing all pending applications and open registration for new domestic consumers.
“We are fully prepared to reconnect homes and expand access to affordable energy,” the company stated.
🔶 What This Means for Citizens — Relief Under the New Gas Policy 2025
The lifting of the ban will have an immediate impact on millions of Pakistani households.
Here’s what citizens can now expect:
| Category | Benefit for Consumers |
|---|---|
| Pending Applications | Thousands of frozen requests will now be processed. |
| New Applicants | Homeowners in cities and rural areas can now apply for new Sui Gas connections. |
| Developers | Housing societies and real estate projects can now obtain bulk gas connections. |
| Public | Improved quality of life, reduced LPG expenses, and safer energy options. |
This initiative particularly benefits households in Punjab, KP, and northern Pakistan, where the demand for domestic gas has remained highest.
🔷 How to Apply for a New Domestic Gas Connection in Pakistan (2025 Guide)
Applying for a gas connection is now simpler and more transparent under the SNGPL online application system.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Visit the Official Portal:
Go to www.sngpl.com.pk → “New Connection” section. - Fill the Application Form:
Enter your CNIC, address, and type of property. - Attach Required Documents:
- Copy of CNIC
- Proof of ownership (Registry/Fard)
- Latest electricity bill (optional)
- Submit Form & Pay Fee:
Submit online or at your nearest SNGPL office. - Site Verification:
Engineers visit for inspection. - Connection Installation:
After approval, gas connection is installed at your home.
Note: Priority will be given to pending applicants before new ones.
🔶 Economic Impact — Boost for Energy and Housing Sector
The removal of the gas connection ban is not just a household decision — it’s an economic catalyst.
It will:
- Revive construction projects halted due to lack of utilities.
- Boost employment in energy and pipeline infrastructure sectors.
- Reduce dependency on LPG imports, saving foreign exchange.
- Enhance rural development through energy expansion.
- Improve national energy equity by ensuring fair gas allocation.
According to analysts, this decision could directly benefit over 1 million new domestic consumers within the next two years.
🔷 Government’s Broader Energy Development Plan 2025
Under the Energy Security Framework 2025, the government aims to achieve long-term sustainability while addressing short-term public needs.
Major Components Include:
- Rs. 45 billion investment in gas infrastructure upgrades.
- Addition of 2,000 km of new gas pipelines.
- LNG terminal expansion for supply stabilization.
- Digital monitoring to curb gas theft and losses.
- Hybrid energy programs linking gas and renewables.
This roadmap aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to self-sufficiency and affordable energy access.
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🔶 Public Reaction — “A Much-Needed Relief”
The public welcomed this announcement with gratitude and hope.
Citizens flooded social media with appreciation posts thanking PM Shehbaz for addressing a long-ignored issue.
“We applied for a gas connection in 2020, and it’s been pending since then. Finally, this is happening!” said a Lahore resident.
Experts also praised the move as a strategic and people-first energy decision, balancing citizen welfare and economic growth.
🔷 Key Challenges Ahead for the Gas Sector
While the announcement is a major step forward, experts highlight several challenges:
- Winter gas shortages still pose a threat to smooth supply.
- Aging infrastructure requires immediate modernization.
- Energy circular debt continues to pressure the system.
- Provincial equity must be maintained to prevent disputes.
However, with improved LNG import management and infrastructure upgrades, officials are optimistic that these hurdles will gradually be overcome.
🔶 Key Takeaways — PM Shehbaz’s Gas Policy 2025
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Decision | Ban on new domestic gas connections lifted |
| Announced By | Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif |
| Implementing Agency | Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) |
| Impact | Millions of households to get access to affordable gas |
| Policy Year | 2025 |
| Focus Keyword | Pakistan Lifts Ban on New Domestic Gas Connections |
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FAQs About Pakistan’s New Gas Connection Policy 2025:
1. When did the government lift the ban on domestic gas connections?
The ban was lifted in October 2025, following a formal notification by the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Energy.
2. Who will benefit from this decision?
All domestic consumers in Pakistan — especially those with pending applications or new housing units — will benefit directly.
3. How can I apply for a new SNGPL gas connection?
You can apply through the official SNGPL website or by visiting the nearest regional office with your CNIC and property documents.
4. Will this affect gas availability during winter?
The government plans to balance the supply by increasing LNG imports and expanding the pipeline network, so minimal disruption is expected.
5. Is there any subsidy or special rate for low-income households?
Yes, under the Energy Relief 2025 program, low-income families will receive priority processing and discounted installation fees.
Conclusion — A Step Toward Energy Equality in Pakistan
The decision to lift the ban on domestic gas connections marks a turning point in Pakistan’s energy policy. By prioritizing ordinary citizens, the Shehbaz-led government has once again shown its commitment to public welfare, accessibility, and sustainable reform.
Millions of families who once cooked on LPG or wood can now look forward to safe, affordable, and permanent gas access in their homes.
If implemented efficiently, this initiative will not only reduce energy inequality but also fuel Pakistan’s path toward self-reliant development.
