Severe Gas Loadshedding Forces Karachi Residents to Cook on Firewood Ahead of Winter

KARACHI: As winter approaches, Karachi residents are facing severe gas loadshedding, forcing many households to revert to firewood and traditional cooking methods. The prolonged gas shortages are causing widespread inconvenience and raising safety concerns in Pakistan’s largest city.

The Karachi Gas Company (K-Gas) has cited supply constraints and high demand as the main reasons behind the rolling gas cuts, affecting thousands of homes across the metropolis.

Impact on Daily Life

Residents report that the unplanned gas outages have disrupted cooking, heating, and small-scale businesses dependent on gas for operations. Many households have been forced to:

• Use firewood or charcoal stoves to prepare meals

• Reduce heating usage to conserve fuel

• Face increased costs for alternative energy sources

A local resident told Faiz.tv:

“With gas cut for several hours a day, we have no choice but to use firewood. It’s dangerous and expensive, but we have to manage until supply improves.”

Health and Safety Concerns

Authorities warn that using firewood indoors can increase the risk of respiratory problems and accidental fires. Doctors have urged residents to ensure proper ventilation and limit exposure to smoke, especially for children and the elderly.

Government and Utility Response

The government has acknowledged the situation and asked K-Gas to prioritize essential supply for households. Officials said efforts are underway to improve gas distribution ahead of the peak winter season.

Energy experts note that the current gas shortfall is compounded by rising global LNG prices and domestic infrastructure limitations, making temporary outages more frequent than in previous years.

Economic Impact

The gas crisis is not only affecting households but also restaurants, bakeries, and small businesses that rely on natural gas. Many are reporting increased operational costs as they switch to firewood, LPG cylinders, or electric stoves.

Analysts warn that if supply issues persist, consumer prices for food and energy may rise further during the winter months.

Conclusion

Severe gas loadshedding in Karachi is forcing residents to rely on firewood for cooking and heating, highlighting the city’s urgent need for improved energy supply and infrastructure. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and promise measures to ease shortages before winter peaks.

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