Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd (SNGPL) has declared force majeure due to renewed tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a three-week halt in regasified liquefied natural gas (RLNG) supply.

This disruption threatens over 5,000MW of RLNG-based power plants in Punjab and could reduce power transmission from Sindh to northern load centers, worsening loadshedding.Officials note that while imported cargoes may temporarily alleviate shortages, the government will need to rely on expensive spot market purchases.

SNGPL cites ongoing regional military conflicts and safety concerns as reasons for the supply interruption, which also affects Qatar Energy's ability to fulfill LNG delivery schedules.The force majeure clause in the Gas Supply Agreement (GSA) absolves SNGPL from contractual obligations during this period.Experts warn that prolonged disruptions could force power plants to use diesel, increasing costs for consumers.

The situation remains uncertain, with potential impacts extending beyond August 3, affecting both energy security and economic stability in the region.