Islamabad: The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has lifted the long-standing ban on new gas connections and approved the supply of RLNG connections across the country. Officials said RLNG will be provided at 30 to 35 percent lower cost compared to imported LPG, offering much-needed relief to consumers.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister also gave in-principle approval for imposing a climate emergency and an agriculture emergency nationwide. He announced that a joint session with all provincial chief ministers will be held soon to finalize a coordinated response.
The cabinet was briefed in detail on the devastating flood situation and the damages caused. It also approved measures for farmer support and infrastructure rehabilitation. The ministers strongly condemned propaganda against Pakistan’s martyrs and armed forces, terming it unacceptable. A prayer was offered for the elevation of the rank of Major Adnan Aslam Shaheed.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also condemned Israeli bombings in Doha, expressing solidarity with the Emir of Qatar, the royal family, and the Qatari people. Additionally, the cabinet ratified the trilateral railway feasibility agreement between Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, calling it a vital project for regional trade and connectivity.
Addressing a press conference after the meeting, Federal Minister for Energy Ali Pervez Malik said the approval of RLNG connections will provide significant relief to the public. “RLNG is 35 percent cheaper than imported LPG. Existing applicants will also be offered the option to switch to RLNG,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the cabinet also reviewed the flood-hit areas in detail. He added that the government has imposed a climate emergency and directed a comprehensive report on climate-related challenges and actions within 15 days.
He acknowledged that Pakistan has not been able to protect its forests and green cover in the past but assured that the government is now taking concrete steps to tackle climate change.
