WUHAN, Dec. 21 (Xinhua) -- Households in central China's Wuhan city are only allowed to purchase a maximum 150 cubic meters of natural gas a month starting Wednesday.

According to the city's natural gas company, increasing demand for natural gas since winter and short supply have greatly reduced the gas pressure in the city's pipe network, threatening its safe operation.

The natural gas supply of nearly 300 users, including entertainment venues, industry and commerce entities, government departments and public institutions, industry, as well as public service facilities (except schools and hospitals), has been suspended since Dec. 7.

The city government also called on related departments to increase supply, and for citizens to use alternative energy for heating.