In another potential blow to inflation-hit consumers, gas prices in Pakistan are likely to increase as the country’s two major gas distribution companies have submitted applications seeking higher tariffs.
According to the applications, Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has requested an increase of Rs370 per million British thermal units (MMBTU) in the average gas price, while Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has sought an increase of Rs10 per MMBTU.
The proposed increases could place an additional financial burden on consumers already struggling with rising living costs.
SSGC issues clarification over higher gas bills in Quetta
Meanwhile, Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has issued a clarification regarding complaints of unusually high gas bills in Quetta.
An SSGC spokesperson explained that gas bills have increased due to the onset of winter and higher gas consumption in the city. The spokesperson added that tariffs determined by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) have also contributed to the increased bills.
According to SSGC, some consumers tamper with their gas meters to avoid receiving high bills. In cases where meters are found to have been tampered with, billing is calculated based on the connected load rather than actual meter readings.
The company clarified that consumers can request meter replacement and laboratory testing if they believe their bills are incorrect.
SSGC further stated that if laboratory testing establishes that additional charges were unjustified, the amount collected will be refunded to the consumer.
Special help desk established for consumer complaints
To address growing consumer concerns, SSGC has established a dedicated help desk in Quetta.
The help desk, located at the company’s Balochistan Regional Office, will operate under the supervision of the Quetta Regional Manager and assist consumers with billing disputes and other gas-related complaints.
The company also maintained that despite suffering severe financial losses, it continues to supply gas to consumers in Quetta.
