Kohat Chamber raises alarm over CNG closure, demands Fair Gas Supply

KOHAT, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd May, 2026) The Kohat Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed serious concern over the prolonged closure of CNG stations and ongoing gas load-shedding, warning of its adverse impact on industry, transport, and household consumers.

The meeting, chaired by Chamber President Rashid Pracha, was attended by former presidents Malik Iqbal, Syed Faiq Shah, Arshad Hayat, Asad Javed, Muhammad Junaid, and CNG Association Vice Chairman Asif Zaman. Participants stressed that depriving gas-producing regions of their own resources violates constitutional provisions.

Members argued that despite reports of new gas discoveries in Kohat and other areas, local communities continue to face shortages that contribute to inflation, unemployment, and public frustration.

They noted that the province produces a significant volume of gas but receives a disproportionately low share for local consumption.

Chamber representatives, including Haji Shaheen Jan, Azmat Jamil, Shakir Jahangir, and Nauman Bangash, questioned the fairness of supplying gas at RLNG rates and rejected claims linking the crisis to external geopolitical factors. They said long-standing supply disparities have created a sense of deprivation among residents.

The Chamber urged both Federal and provincial authorities to resolve the issue through dialogue, ensure compliance with constitutional rights, and prioritize local demand. It demanded the immediate reopening of CNG stations to restore economic activity and public confidence.

APP/azq/378