Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices have increased in Lahore, as despite the official rate of Rs304 per kg, gas is being sold in the market for Rs500 to Rs550 per kg, as of today.
Shopkeepers say that LPG distributors are charging arbitrary prices, due to which they are unable to sell gas at the official rate.
Shopkeepers have demanded that the government take immediate action against the distributors and make them obliged to provide LPG at the official rate.
On the other hand, citizens have also expressed serious concern over the rising prices of LPG.
Buyers say that the household budget is being affected due to expensive gas, and there has been a significant increase in kitchen expenses.
Citizens and shopkeepers have demanded that the government control the prices of LPG so that the public can get relief.
PM Shehbaz reduces petroleum prices
Prime Minister (PM) of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, reduced the diesel price by Rs32 on April 17. The new price of diesel was set at Rs353.43.
Before that, the diesel price was Rs 385.54. However, the government announced to keep the petrol prices the same.
The petroleum prices increased after the Israel, US and Iran conflict started on February 8.
However, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal played an important role in the ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Transporters reduce fares
Public and goods transporters across Pakistan have announced a reduction in fares after a drop in petroleum product prices.
In Lahore, public transport operators reduced fares by 25 per cent and several private transport companies implemented similar 25 per cent reductions.
Goods transporters have announced an even larger reduction, cutting fares by up to 40 per cent nationwide.
According to the President of the Pakistan Goods Transport Association, freight charges across the country have been reduced by Rs40 per unit with immediate effect.
