The demand for coal and firewood has increased in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad as domestic consumers and 'Tandoor' owners have started using these as an alternate source. As the winter season starts the gas pressure create hurdles for people, specially workforce and students who have to face a lot of problem in morning.
People in twin cities are using coal to beat the chill and the 'Tandoor' owners are using firewood as alternate in rush hours.
The purchase of firewood and coal has become an additional burden on people. For instance, besides paying gas bills despite being deprived of the facility people are spending money for the purchase of firewood and coal to keep themselves warm and prepare their meals.
Aslam Khan a domestic consumer told that gas pressure suddenly drops low to zero for the last few weeks and people are compelled to use coal to warm themselves which has increased the price of coal.
Riaz Hussain said that due to low gas pressure it is impossible to cook meal at home so they have to run to hotels. The problem starts from 6am to 11am and in the evening from 6pm to 11pm due to which working class and students are facing problems in timely reaching their offices and schools, he added.