The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has launched an investigation into allegations of overpricing by state-run Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd (SNGPL) on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) following consumer complaints.
According to a news report, LPG, which is widely viewed as a fuel for the poor due to its use in rural and hilly areas, has been sold at inflated prices. The CRA alleged that SNGPL was selling the 11.8 kg domestic cylinder for Rs 3,253 in Islamabad, an additional cost of Rs 299.64 per cylinder from the fixed price of Rs 2,953.36 set by Ogra for January.
The complaint included receipts as evidence, alleging that this practice constitutes a clear violation of the law.
CRA Chairman Muhammad Arif, a former Ogra member, criticized the overcharging, and questioned the regulator’s ability to enforce compliance within the private sector when such violations occur within public sector entities.
He warned that such incidents erode public confidence in government regulatory authorities and oversight.
However, an SNGPL official defended the charges, pointing out that the additional Rs 300 per cylinder covers transportation costs. “This is only delivery charges,” the official said, claiming that the consumer price notified to Ugra was lower than the actual import cost of LPG.
Ugra Chairman Masroor Khan assured that the matter will be investigated thoroughly in accordance with standard operating procedures and legal frameworks. He stressed that “corrective action will be followed if discrepancies are found.”