Sui Southern Gas Company has clarified that the stronger-than-usual gas smell reported in several parts of Karachi is not due to any leakage. The company said the unusual odour is the result of temporary testing of its odorisation plants during the commissioning of a new pipeline near Abul Hasan Ispahani Road.
According to SSGC, system pressures across the network remain normal and no gas leakage has been detected. As part of the pipeline commissioning process, an increased amount of odorant was added to the natural gas supply. This higher concentration of the chemical that gives gas its distinctive smell has caused residents in some localities to notice a much stronger odour than usual.
The company explained that the testing is a routine and necessary step when bringing a new pipeline into operation. The stronger smell has led to several complaints of suspected leaks from different areas of the city. However, SSGC firmly stated that the odour is solely linked to the ongoing odorisation plant testing and does not point to any actual gas leak in the distribution system.
SSGC has urged consumers to remain calm and continue their daily routines without worry. The gas utility company assured the public that the entire distribution system is operating within normal and safe parameters. Residents are advised not to panic if they notice a stronger gas smell in their neighbourhood during this period.
The clarification comes against the backdrop of past incidents involving gas safety in the city. In April, a local court in Karachi held SSGC responsible for negligence in a case related to the deaths of two citizens caused by a gas line explosion in Orangi Town’s Millat Colony in 2022. The court directed the company to pay Rs30 million in compensation to the affected family.
Despite that earlier judgment, SSGC maintains that the current situation is completely different and under full control. The company is actively monitoring the testing process and will restore normal odorant levels once the commissioning of the new pipeline is completed. For now, the stronger gas smell in parts of Karachi is temporary and does not pose any safety risk to residents.
