The power utility, however, expressed readiness to supplying gas to a power plant mentioned in the Chief Minister's speech.

"The SSGC cannot comment on the distribution of natural gas under Article 158, as it doesn't come under its domain," a SSGC spokesman said in a statement here.

"With regards to not supplying gas to a power plant, it may be noted that the SSGC is ready to supply gas to the power Plant referred by the CM in his speech, provided the management of the plant submits the admissible security deposit of Rs1 billion," he added.

The spokesman further said, "As soon as the deposit is submitted, the SSGC will connect the plant as the necessary infrastructure in this regards has already been completed which is in the knowledge of the plant's management.

"Furthermore, the Gas Sales Agreement (GSA) between SSGC and the management of power plant has already been signed.

However, there were few amendments requested by the management of the power plant which have been approved by SSGC's Board of Directors and need to be incorporated in the GSA with mutual consent."