Disruption at Pak-Iran Trade Border May Affect LPG Supply Across Country Including Balochistan
QUETTA – The closure of the Pak-Iran trade border and the disruption in trade activities between the two countries has raised fears that the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) may be affected across the country, including Balochistan, and that a possible shortage may arise in the coming days. According to sources, if the supply of LPG coming from Iran to Pakistan is disrupted, gas availability may be affected in various districts of Balochistan including Quetta and other cities of the country, while the possibility of an increase in prices is also being expressed.
According to UNA, due to the disruption in trade activities through the Pak-Iran border, the movement of LPG bowsers is feared to be affected. The supply coming from Iran is considered important for meeting the demand for LPG in Balochistan, especially in Quetta and the border areas. In such a situation, a prolonged disruption in border trade could increase pressure on local markets.
Sources say that if the movement of LPG bowsers remains suspended, the balance of demand and supply may be affected. In the event of a decrease in supply and demand remaining intact, there is a possibility of an increase in gas prices, which could cause difficulties for domestic consumers, hotels, restaurants, tandoors, and small businesses using LPG.
In various urban areas of Balochistan including Quetta, LPG is used for household needs and cooking. If a prolonged disruption occurs in supply through border routes and the required quantity of gas is not provided through alternative means, the availability problem could become serious in some areas. The effects of this situation are feared to be more prominent, especially in the remote and border districts of Balochistan.
On the other hand, due to trade sanctions imposed on Iran and ongoing tensions in the region, concerns have also increased regarding business activities related to Pak-Iran trade. According to trade circles, if the border trade and transportation system is not restored to normal, the transportation of other essential items including LPG may also be affected.
Trade sources say that the effects of a decrease or disruption in LPG supply coming from Iran may be felt not only in Balochistan but also in other parts of the country. If timely supply through alternative means is not ensured, pressure on available reserves may increase along with the possibility of fluctuations in prices.
Trade and business circles have demanded that the government and relevant institutions immediately assess the possible effects of the disruption in trade activities at the Pak-Iran border and make alternative arrangements for the uninterrupted supply of essential fuel including LPG. They also stressed ensuring effective monitoring of prices in the market along with preventing hoarding and artificial shortages.
According to public and trade circles, if the situation is monitored in a timely manner and alternative supply and appropriate reserves are arranged, the effects of a possible shortage and an unusual increase in prices can be reduced. However, the actual availability of LPG and the impact on supply will depend on the duration of the disruption in border trade and supply through alternative means.
