The Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) in Peshawar has voiced grave concerns over the closure of CNG stations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, labeling it an unconstitutional act that threatens the collapse of the CNG sector. In a strongly worded statement, the chamber urged the provincial government to intervene promptly to safeguard this vital industry.
Joint Meeting Highlights Dual Crises
A joint meeting was convened by the Businessman Forum under the chairmanship of SCCI President Junaid Altaf at the chamber house. The gathering included delegations from the All Pakistan CNG Association (APCNGA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter and the Hajj and Umrah Association. Key attendees included APCNGA Chairman Pervez Khan and SCCI Standing Committee on Hajj and Umrah representative Ghazanfar Savul, alongside senior office-bearers and members from both sectors.
CNG Sector Under Threat
Pervez Khan, Chairman of APCNGA, detailed the alarming situation on the ground. He revealed that over 500 CNG filling stations in the province consume only 45 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) of gas. In contrast, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's total natural gas consumption stands at 120 MMCFD in summer and 200 MMCFD in winter, against a gross production of 500 MMCFD.
"It is completely illogical that despite surplus gas production, supply is being halted to the CNG sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa," Khan asserted. He emphasized that this move violates Article 158 of the Constitution, which prioritizes gas supply to the province of production. Khan warned that the livelihoods of many people are tied to the CNG sector, and its shutdown could disrupt the daily demand of 1.5 million liters of petrol in the region.
Opposition to New Hajj Policy
In addition to the CNG issue, the SCCI strongly opposed a new provincial government policy requiring Hajj and Umrah operators to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority and the police department. Ghazanfar Savul highlighted that this policy has caused delays in license renewals and compounded the sector's existing crises.
Savul expressed deep concern over rising airline fares, further straining the business community involved in Hajj and Umrah operations. He urged the government to review and withdraw this anti-business policy immediately to prevent further damage to this important sector.
Chamber's Firm Stance
SCCI President Junaid Altaf assured the delegations that these issues would be vigorously taken up with the provincial government, chief minister, and other higher authorities. "We do not believe in agitation and strikes, but if these matters are not resolved through dialogue, we will be forced to take stringent and harsh measures," he warned, underscoring the chamber's commitment to protecting business interests in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
