Karachi, July 26, 2024 – Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has achieved a significant milestone by laying a dedicated 24-inch diameter, 31-kilometer-long high-pressure gas pipeline exclusively for the industrial consumers in the SITE area of Karachi.
This move is expected to address long-standing issues of low or zero gas pressure affecting the industrial sector in the region.
The dedication of the pipeline was celebrated in a reception hosted by the SITE Association of Industry in honor of SSGC Managing Director Muhammad Imran Maniar. During the event, the members of the Association expressed their deep appreciation for the efforts of MD Maniar, who has been instrumental in resolving the issue over the past three years. The occasion was marked by a standing ovation for Maniar, recognizing his commitment to improving gas supply for the SITE industries.
Addressing the gathering, MD SSGC Muhammad Imran Maniar provided an overview of the new pipeline and its anticipated benefits. He explained that the high-pressure line would significantly enhance gas pressure in the SITE area by separating industrial connections from domestic ones. This separation is expected to reduce unaccounted for gas (UFG) losses and allow for more precise regulation of gas pressure across domestic and industrial users.
Maniar also highlighted the advancements made in automation, noting that 70% of Karachi’s Total Balancing System (TBS) is now automated. This development enables SSGC to regulate gas pressure in the city with a single touch. The new pipeline is a key component in this modernization effort, aimed at optimizing gas distribution and addressing previous inefficiencies.
The discussion also covered the topic of Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) blend pricing and billing. MD Maniar indicated that there might be a need to disconnect domestic users from the gas network and shift them to LPG cylinders to minimize line losses. He assured the members that precautions are in place to prevent any unintended connection of domestic lines with the new high-pressure pipeline.
SITE President Muhammad Kamran Arbi praised MD Maniar for delivering on a promise made three years ago. Arbi acknowledged that while the pipeline initially seemed like an ambitious goal, its completion represents a significant achievement for the industry.
Patron-in-Chief Zubair Motiwala commended Maniar’s performance over the past three years and highlighted the challenges faced by exporters in Pakistan due to high utility costs. Motiwala urged the MD to eliminate gas blending and suggested replacing conventional gas geysers with solar geysers, which could be financed through monthly bills. He assured continued support for future initiatives.
Chief Coordinator Saleem Parekh thanked Maniar for his commitment and regular visits to the Association, which have enhanced coordination and communication. He raised concerns about potential issues with domestic connections but was reassured by Maniar about the high-pressure line’s security measures.
Former President Jawed Bilwani expressed gratitude for the priority given to SITE industries and suggested exploring biomass and coal as alternatives for energy supply. He proposed setting up a biomass gas plant in SITE to provide electricity, gas, and steam to local industries.
In a gesture of appreciation, the SITE Association presented Muhammad Imran Maniar with a bouquet and shield. The event was attended by key figures including M/s. Muhammad Hanif Tawakkal (SVP), Abdul Hadi, Abdul Rasheed, Iqbal Arbi, Sh. Zafar Ahmed, Muhammad Arif Lakhany, Abdul Kadir Bilwani, Shoaib Dalal, Sohail Hussain, and Engr. Muhammad Akbar.
The completion of the dedicated gas pipeline marks a significant advancement in addressing the energy needs of Karachi’s industrial sector, promising improved operational efficiency and reduced energy-related challenges for businesses in the SITE area.