The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has initiated an investigation into allegations of overpricing by the state-run Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd (SNGPL) on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) following consumer complaints.
According to a news report, LPG, widely regarded as a poor man’s fuel due to its use in rural and hilly areas, has been reportedly sold at inflated rates. The Consumer Rights Advocacy (CRA) alleged that SNGPL was selling the 11.8kg domestic cylinder for Rs3,253 in Islamabad, an overcharge of Rs 299.64 per cylinder from the fixed rate of Rs2,953.36 set by Ogra for January.
The complaint included receipts as evidence, claiming this practice constituted a clear violation of the law.
CRA President Muhammad Arif, a former Ogra member, criticised the overcharging, questioning the regulator’s ability to enforce compliance within the private sector when such violations occur within public sector entities.Â
He warned that such incidents erode public trust in regulatory authorities and government oversight.
However, a SNGPL official defended the charges, stating that the additional Rs300 per cylinder covered transportation costs. “These are delivery charges only,” the official said, claiming that Ogra’s notified consumer price was lower than the actual import cost of LPG.
Ogra Chairman Masroor Khan confirmed that the matter would be thoroughly investigated in accordance with standard operating procedures and legal frameworks. “Corrective actions will follow if discrepancies are found,” he assured.
