Why Are Protests Erupting in Quetta Over Gas Shortages During Extreme Cold?
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Synopsis
Residents in Quetta are protesting against gas shortages during severe cold weather, leading to blocked roads and heated demonstrations. This situation highlights the broader issues of gas supply disruptions affecting multiple regions in Pakistan. As temperatures drop, the need for immediate action becomes critical. Will authorities respond in time to alleviate the suffering? Read more to find out.
Key Takeaways
- Protests in Quetta are a reaction to severe gas shortages.
- Residents are demanding immediate restoration of gas supply.
- Cold weather exacerbates the impact of gas shortages on daily life.
- Other regions in Pakistan are also facing similar gas supply issues.
- Community responses highlight the need for improvements in gas infrastructure.
Quetta, Jan 11 (NationPress) Protests erupted in Quetta, Pakistan due to persistent gas shortages in the face of severe cold weather, as residents took to the streets, blocking roads and setting tyres ablaze in response to low gas pressure and disrupted supplies, according to local media reports on Sunday.
The gas supply has been significantly curtailed in various regions due to the harsh cold, leading to severe challenges for families striving to keep their homes warm. Load shedding in Quetta and nearby areas has been enforced by the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) from midnight to 5 a.m., as reported by Pakistani daily Dawn.
Residents of Kalat, Mastung, Ziarat, Pishin, and other regions are also enduring similar gas shortages during the ongoing cold spell. Many residents in various parts of Quetta and its outskirts have claimed that they are not receiving adequate gas even outside these designated hours. Several neighborhoods in the main city experience low pressure or interrupted gas supply from SSGC as temperatures plummet to minus five degrees.
In the Sariab area, residents protesting against low gas pressure and ongoing supply interruptions blocked roads and halted traffic. Protesters expressed frustration, stating they had repeatedly alerted SSGC officials about the low-pressure gas supply; however, their complaints went unaddressed. Consequently, they resorted to burning tyres to block the main thoroughfare and urgently demanded the restoration of gas services.
In December of the previous year, citizens in Hyderabad voiced their grievances about the suspension of gas services during daytime hours for three consecutive days. Residents in various neighborhoods reported extended gas shortages and critically low gas pressure during scheduled supply times, affecting households and businesses, as noted by Pakistani daily The Express Tribune.
The Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry has called for immediate improvements in gas provision, upgrades to gas infrastructure, and the establishment of a transparent load-management policy with prior notification.
Point of View
We stand by the nation's right to voice their concerns. The ongoing protests in Quetta highlight critical issues surrounding gas shortages that affect daily life, particularly in extreme weather conditions. It's essential for authorities to address these grievances transparently to restore public trust and ensure community welfare.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main reasons for the protests in Quetta?
The protests are primarily due to prolonged gas shortages and low gas pressure during extreme cold weather, causing significant hardship for residents.
How are residents in Quetta responding to the gas shortages?
Residents are actively protesting by blocking roads and burning tyres to draw attention to their plight and demand immediate restoration of gas supply.
What has the Sui Southern Gas Company said about the situation?
The Sui Southern Gas Company has implemented load shedding in Quetta and surrounding areas from midnight to 5 a.m., citing the extreme cold as a reason for reduced supply.
Are other areas in Pakistan facing similar issues?
Yes, regions like Kalat, Mastung, Ziarat, and Pishin are also experiencing gas shortages amid the cold weather.
What actions have been taken by local authorities regarding the complaints?
Residents have reported that their complaints to SSGC officials have gone unaddressed, prompting protests demanding immediate action.
