Consumers across Pakistan are facing record-high liquefied petroleum gas prices amid weak market control.
Reports suggest that an alleged LPG mafia has collected billions of rupees from citizens. Consumers are being forced to pay over Rs600 per kilogram in many areas.
This is almost double the official price set by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority. OGRA fixed the rate at Rs309 per kilogram for June.
However, buyers say LPG is not available anywhere at the official rate. Retailers, plants, and marketing companies are reportedly charging different prices.
The sharp increase has added more pressure on inflation-hit households. Many families depend on gas cylinders for cooking and daily use.
According to the Pakistan LPG Distributors Association, the country consumes over 6 million kilograms daily. This high demand has made consumers vulnerable to price manipulation.
Reports claim that dealers used the recent energy crisis to raise prices. The crisis followed tensions between Iran and the United States.
Shopkeepers say they are also facing pressure from suppliers. A retailer named Kashif said he buys gas from plants at around Rs550 per kilogram.
He said retailers cannot sell at Rs309 when their purchase price is much higher. He added that fines are mostly imposed on shopkeepers.
Kashif also alleged that plant operators do not issue receipts. He claimed some operators refuse supply when retailers ask for proof of purchase.
Retailers say the real issue lies with marketing companies and plant owners. They believe action should be taken against suppliers charging inflated prices.
Consumers, however, are the worst affected by the crisis. Many citizens say they have no choice but to buy expensive gas.
The financial impact is also significant. With daily consumption above 6 million kilograms, even a Rs300 increase has a huge effect.
This could mean around Rs1.8 billion collected from consumers daily. On a monthly basis, the amount may cross Rs54 billion.
Market observers say stronger enforcement is needed to control the situation. They believe OGRA rates must be implemented across the supply chain.
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Until effective action is taken, citizens may continue paying record prices. The ongoing LPG crisis has become another burden on ordinary households.
