As Ramadan arrives, the government announces that it would provide uninterrupted electricity and petrol supply throughout Sehr and Aftar hours, yet the problem remains. Gas and power shortages during Ramazan are common problems in Pakistan, and they can cause a range of issues for individuals and communities. Looking at the challenges that people suffered as a result of the unexpected cutoff of power and gas supplies during the Sehr and Aftar hours during the first fast of the month of fasting in Karachi and other parts of the country, doubts about the functioning of the relevant departments and institutions arose once again. During Ramazan, people prepare large meals for the Aftar and suhoor. However, gas and power shortages can make it difficult to cook these meals, leading to delays and frustration. This can cause additional stress for families who are already dealing with the challenges of fasting. But the government claims that gas load-shedding is part of the government’s austerity agenda, which aims to utilise gas sparingly and only when necessary, without provoking discontent or inconveniencing residents. Due to the gas shut-off and low pressure, Sehr meals could not be made. Citizens phoned media offices and alerted them of the situation, while inhabitants of the neighbourhood held protests in several locations. Protesters gathered at Golimar Chowrangi in Karachi, as burning tyres on the highways disrupted traffic movement. The petrol shutdown and load shedding, which began in November in other areas of the nation, are still in effect in Karachi. Gas is available in many sections of the nation for a few hours, although at low pressure. It appears that our conventional government apparatus has coldly followed the government’s austerity strategy and has not paid full attention to studies, surveys, and planning in this chapter. The appropriate departments and implementation apparatus are required. The rectification should be given complete attention. Gas and power shortages during Ramazan can cause a range of problems, including cooking difficulties, food preservation challenges, work disruptions, limited access to medical care, social and cultural impacts, and safety hazards.
Individuals and communities need to take steps to prepare for these challenges and work together to find solutions.
