LPG sale at exorbitant rates continues

Rs50 reduction announced by OGRA not implemented

LAHORE:

A mafia in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tade has not implemented the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority's (OGRA) decision to reduce the price of the fuel by Rs49 per kg.

OGRA had fixed the new price of LPG at Rs229 per kg but the traders in the city are reportedly charging up to Rs300 from consumers, earning a large amount illegally.

OGRA had reduced the price on April 1 but LPG is not being sold at the new rate across Punjab.

There have also been complaints that the prices of LPG vary at different outlets.

LPG distributors claim that they are not receiving LPG from marketing companies on the rates announced by OGRA.

LPG Distributors' Association president Irfan Khokhar said the supply chain at the official rates should be maintained properly.

He said there allegedly had been black marketing of LPG of almost Rs50 per kg.

He said his association had informed OGRA and the district administrations about the situation.

OGRA spokesman Imran Ghaznavi said in reply to a question that instructions had been issued to the provincial chief secretary to address the issue.

"We are trying with the help of the provincial government and district administration to provide LPG to the citizens at the official rate as per an OGRA notification," he said. Lahore Commissioner Mohammad Ali Randhawa said complains had been received the deputy commissioners directed to prepare a strategy with the consultation of the distribution companies.

He said the DCs would also talk with the LPG marketing companies and plant owners about the rates.

If LPG will not be provided at the OGRA rate then there will be legal action against those responsible, the commissioner warned.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 19^th, 2023.