KARACHI (Kashmir English): High-level talks between Pakistan and Qatar for the supply of at least 4 cargoes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) have entered the final stages, which could potentially reach Pakistan via the Strait of Hormuz.
According to media reports, due to a power shortage, the Power Division has made a formal request to the Petroleum Division to ensure the supply of about 400 million cubic feet of LNG per day for power generation.
Last month, Pakistan faced a disruption in LNG imports due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Due to this situation, Qatar had announced the termination of its LNG contracts globally, including those with Pakistan.
According to media reports, in view of the fuel and power crisis, the Power Division has sought cooperation from all relevant agencies to procure LNG cargoes on an urgent basis, especially after the possibility that Pakistani-flagged ships may pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Earlier, some LNG cargoes from Qatar had also returned through the same passage.
According to media reports, around 25 to 30 cargoes of Qatar Petroleum are currently stranded between processing stations and the Strait of Hormuz, of which at least 4 have been requested to be provided to Pakistan.
For this purpose, technical teams of both countries are in constant contact, and Pakistan is also ready to use its diplomatic efforts if necessary.
According to statistics, electricity demand in summer usually exceeds 28 thousand MW, while at present the demand during peak hours is 19 to 20 thousand MW and less than 9 thousand MW during daytime, a major reason for which is the increasing use of solar energy; however, after sunset, these same consumers again rely on the national grid.
