LPG prices surge beyond Ogra limits

KARACHI: The price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has sharply risen, exceeding rates set by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) as market players capitalise on increased seasonal demand. Despite Ogra’s efforts to control prices, reports indicate that some LPG distributors are disregarding regulatory limits, burdening consumers with inflated costs.

According to Ogra’s official notice, the LPG price is capped at Rs251.3 per kilogramme. However, sources reveal that in many urban areas, LPG is being sold for as much as Rs280 to Rs300 per kilogramme. This significant price increase has sparked frustration among consumers and raised concerns over Ogra’s capacity to enforce its pricing regulations effectively.

LPG availability at regulated prices is scarce, leaving lower-income households, who rely on LPG for cooking and heating, struggling to afford the surging costs as colder months approach. The black market, reportedly operating freely, leaves consumers with little choice but to pay elevated rates set by distributors.

The cost of a standard household LPG cylinder has also spiked, with an increase of up to Rs400, adding further financial strain on consumers. Sources allege that Ogra’s enforcement efforts disproportionately target smaller shopkeepers rather than major distributors and importers believed to be behind the price manipulation.

This selective enforcement has caused discontent among smaller vendors, who claim they are being unfairly penalised while major players go unchallenged. Until Ogra and relevant authorities take decisive steps to curb the unchecked price increases, consumers may continue to suffer under escalating LPG costs as winter demand further drives up prices.