THE sharp increase in LPG prices across the country has further compounded the financial hardships faced by consumers, particularly at a time when winter is fast approaching. With temperatures beginning to drop, demand for LPG is expected to rise significantly, particularly in areas where natural gas is unavailable or its supply remains limited. For millions of households, LPG is not a luxury but a basic necessity and its rising cost is making it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to manage their household expenses.
The government has increased the official LPG price by Rs14 per kilogram to Rs294. However, the commodity is being sold at considerably higher rates in the open market, reflecting a wide gap between the notified price and actual market prices. In Quetta and other parts of Balochistan, LPG is reportedly being sold for Rs530 to Rs700 per kilogram, while consumers in Karachi and Lahore are paying between Rs520 and Rs600. In Peshawar, prices have reached Rs600 to Rs650 per kilogram. Such exorbitant rates are placing an additional burden on households that are already struggling with the rising cost of living. The situation becomes even more concerning when LPG prices in Pakistan are compared with those in other regional countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and India, where the commodity is available at considerably lower rates. There is no denying that supply disruptions, partly linked to the prevailing situation in the Middle East, have affected energy markets and contributed to price pressures. However, these challenges cannot justify allowing profiteers and unscrupulous dealers to exploit consumers. Supply constraints should not become an excuse for making excessive profits at the expense of ordinary citizens. With winter demand expected to increase further, the government must act without delay to prevent the situation from worsening. The relevant authorities should ensure sufficient supplies, strengthen market monitoring and take strict action against dealers selling LPG above the official price. Arrangements should also be made to maintain adequate stocks and explore alternative supply sources to meet growing demand.
