The price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has surged in Karachi, rising from Rs 350 to Rs 380 per kilogram, adding to the financial burden on consumers already grappling with inflation.
According to Ali Haider, Convener of the LPG Committee, the price increase cannot be attributed solely to shopkeepers. He stated that LPG marketing companies and distributors are also playing a significant role in the hike, according to media reports.
Ali Haider further highlighted that the total increase of Rs 130 per kg involves multiple stakeholders across the supply chain, indicating deeper issues within the LPG distribution system.
The sudden rise has raised concerns among citizens, with many calling for stricter regulatory oversight to control unjustified price escalation.
On the other hand, the spokesperson for the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) stated that the authority has not received any information regarding the recent price increase. He added that if shopkeepers are charging above the official rate, it is the responsibility of the provincial government to take action.
The spokesperson further clarified that OGRA is not responsible for the delay in the supply of 3.5 million kilograms of LPG from a ship at Port Qasim. Meanwhile, it reported yesterday that a vessel carrying 3,800 metric tons of LPG has arrived at Port Qasim for SSGC.
On the other hand, the government has stated that imports of petroleum products for March and April have been secured. It added that the country has sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel, and the oil supply chain remains fully stable.
A meeting of the Cabinet Committee, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, was held to review Pakistan’s energy supply situation and global market trends in light of the war in the Middle East.
The committee was informed that cooperation with friendly countries, including Saudi Arabia, is ongoing to ensure a steady oil supply.
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