The industry remained closed for 77 days last year, rendered US $2.5 billion idle capacity and Rs 140 billion of losses to industry resulting in huge non-performing loans. The Aptma delegation had prepared a detailed presentation on the issues confronting the textile industry and the way forward, however, the extraordinarily preoccupied President staff stopped the Aptma leadership to present it to the President. And instead, it was suggested to the Aptma delegation that it should render its submissions orally.
The Aptma delegation, said the industry sources, told the President that this year the Cabinet had introduced Gas Load Management Programme for the winter season with 2 days per week gas supply suspension for the textile industry in Punjab & NWFP which was widely appreciated by the textile industry.
However, the Cabinet decision has been violated and the gas supply is being suspended for 5 days per week since January 1, 2010, they added. The Aptma delegation urged the President to ensure allocation of 300 mmcfd gas for textile industry which can bring back idle capacity and earn $2.5 billion additional exports. Further, it urged upon fast track implementation of LNG import project at Karachi for SSGC & SNGPL network to meet shortage of gas next winter season.
In addition, resolution of legal issues of OGDC new gas fields (Kunar, Pashaki 340 mmcfd) is also sought in the detailed presentation to bring an end to the last 3 years litigation and ensure gas supply into the system next year. The Aptma delegation has urged early completion of compression project at Qadirpur gas field causing shortage of 150 mmcfd in the system.