MULTAN: The Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has introduced a renewed strategy to curb gas theft, focusing on technical violations by domestic and commercial consumers.
The SNGPL administration has intensified its crackdown in South Punjab, conducting surprise inspections of gas connections across the region. Acting on the instructions of the SNGLP general nanager, the SNGPL UFG (Unaccounted for Gas) Control Task Force carried out vigorous operations against gas theft, illegal usage and technical violations.
During the latest operation in Multan, the task force inspected 60 locations and disconnected four gas meters over various violations. Among the cases detected, one meter had been reversed to record lower consumption, while another had been installed upside down to manipulate readings.
Two additional meters were disconnected for the illegal use of compressors, which is a violation of company regulations.The officials said the objective of the UFG Control Task Force is not only to eliminate gas theft but also to improve gas pressure, ensure uninterrupted supply to consumers, and address public complaints promptly.
On the occasion, the SNGPL general manager emphasised that the safety of consumers’ lives and properties remains a top priority for the organization. He advised consumers to ensure there is no smell of gas before use. In case of a gas leak, citizens should immediately open all doors and windows and avoid switching on gas or electrical appliances.
He further clarified that indiscriminate action against gas theft and illegal activities will continue to ensure safe, quality and uninterrupted gas supply to all consumers. Explaining common technical violations, he said these include the use of prohibited compressors, tampering with meter seals, installing meters outside authorised areas, and unauthorized commercial use of residential gas connections.
They added that severe penalties and disconnections are imposed for using illegal boosters to enhance gas pressure. Breaking meter glass or altering counters to under-record consumption constitutes meter tampering, while direct illegal tapping or extending gas lines to multiple homes is considered a major violation.
Similarly, using residential meters for commercial purposes, such as in factories, and installing LPG meters outside designated service areas are also punishable offenses.
