The Pakistani population is currently buckling under the massive fuel hike. However, the CNG industry has offered to provide significantly cheaper gas for vehicles if the government allows it to import Lignified Natural Gas (LNG).
Ghiyas Abdullah Paracha, Group Leader All Pakistan CNG Association (APCNGA) told the media that the CNG industry can supply gas to public transport at rates 53 percent lower than petrol which will save around $2.1 billion on the import bill annually.
Moreover, he claimed that the cheaper gas would help reduce the circular debt that had crossed Rs2 trillion in the energy sector.
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“Revival and expansion of the CNG sector can generate thousands of new job opportunities while the use of CNG as an alternative fuel in motor vehicles is equivalent to having an environmental benefit of 152.63 million trees per annum,” he added.
CNG sector to solve Pakistan’s problems?
If the CNG industry can provide gas at a cheaper rate then it will be beneficial for Pakistan. Currently, the country is facing a huge energy crisis. The government raised the petrol prices twice in the recent past which has added to the inflationary pressure of the public.
Moreover, Pakistan is also facing unannounced load-shedding between 6-14 hours. The load-shedding has become a massive problem as it has hindered the operational activities of businesses, resulting in severe losses. The frequent load-shedding in Pakistan comes after the electricity shortfall.
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Therefore, Pakistan can mitigate its energy crisis if the CNG industry picks up pace since it will be an alternative to petroleum. Pertinent to mention, state-run companies have a monopoly over the LNG business.
The inclusion of private sector would promote competition and ultimately benefit the consumers. It will provide massive relief to the general public in the form of 50 percent cut in the public transport fares, creating job opportunities and minimizing carbon emissions.