Agreement reached between Centre and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership brings relief for CNG sector and addresses inter-provincial supply concerns.
Breakthrough in Talks Between Centre and KP Government
The federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments have successfully concluded negotiations over the suspension of gas supply to CNG stations, resulting in an agreement to restore supply arrangements for the province.
The development comes after growing political pressure from KP leadership, where Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi had recently taken a unified stance, criticising the federal government over the disruption of gas supply to the province’s CNG sector.
Following the talks, officials confirmed that a workable arrangement has been reached to resume supply and ease pressure on the transport sector, which heavily relies on CNG in the province.
Gas Supply Restoration and Operating Hours
According to KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, CNG stations across the province will now operate from 6am to 6pm daily. He described the development as a positive step toward addressing the province’s energy concerns.
Provincial authorities also confirmed that approximately 35 mmcfd (million cubic feet per day) of gas supply has been approved for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This allocation is expected to support the revival of CNG operations and reduce fuel-related disruptions in public transport.
Governor Kundi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for taking direct interest in the matter and forming a committee to resolve the issue. He also appreciated what he called a rare moment of political unity between the provincial government, opposition, and governor’s office.
Political and Administrative Coordination
KP Chief Minister’s Adviser on Finance and Inter-Provincial Coordination, Muzzammil Aslam, stated that continuous engagement with federal authorities played a key role in resolving the issue. He also acknowledged the cooperation of various stakeholders, including provincial representatives and opposition figures.
Sources indicated that the agreement was reached during a high-level meeting attended by federal ministers, provincial officials, the KP chief secretary, and representatives of Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL).
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Wheat and Flour Supply Issue Also Addressed
In a separate but related development, the federal government also directed the Punjab government to remove any obstacles in the transportation of wheat and flour to other provinces, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where supply disruptions had raised concerns.
During a high-level meeting, officials discussed reports of rising flour prices in KP and questioned inconsistencies in inter-provincial supply flows. The KP side argued that restrictions—formal or informal—were affecting market stability and consumer prices.
Federal authorities assured provincial representatives that any barriers in the movement of wheat and flour would be removed, and uninterrupted supply would be ensured across provinces.
A mechanism was also introduced to help traders report transportation issues through digital channels, enabling quicker action against any alleged restrictions.
Officials from both sides have described the outcome as a constructive step toward easing tensions and improving coordination on essential supplies. While administrative details are still being finalized, the agreement is expected to provide short-term relief to the CNG sector and stabilize fuel and food supply chains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
