Pakistan faces winter energy crunch as LPG costs force return to firewood

Pakistan is grappling with an acute energy crisis as winter approaches, with liquefied petroleum gas prices climbing beyond the reach of many households. Faced with mounting costs for LPG, families across the country are reverting to firewood and traditional cooking methods, a development that reflects worsening economic conditions and supply constraints.

The price surge comes as Pakistan's energy sector struggles with multiple challenges, including capacity shortages, circular debt, and infrastructure constraints. LPG, which has become a primary cooking fuel for urban and semi-urban populations over the past two decades, has become increasingly unaffordable for lower and middle-income families.

The return to firewood poses environmental and health concerns, contributing to indoor and outdoor air pollution during the winter months when demand for heating peaks. Rural areas have been particularly affected, though urban centers are also witnessing similar trends as households seek cheaper alternatives.

Energy analysts attribute the crisis to a combination of factors including delayed gas supplies, maintenance shutdowns at refineries, and global market fluctuations affecting import costs. The situation is expected to intensify as temperatures drop in coming months, placing additional pressure on already strained household budgets across Pakistan.