Consumers in Pakistan, already grappling with high costs, may face another financial burden as the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has requested a significant increase in gas prices.
The company has submitted its petition to the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), asking for an average price increase of 189 rupees per MMBTU (unit) for the current financial year.
According to sources, the current average gas price is 1,766.50 rupees per unit. Sui Northern is seeking to raise this to 1,955.50 rupees.
The reason cited for this proposed hike is a massive financial deficit faced by the company. The application estimates a total revenue shortfall of approximately 52.95 billion rupees.
In addition to this main increase, Sui Northern has also requested permission to charge consumers a separate 316.64 rupees per unit under the “cost of LNG service.”
OGRA will hold a public hearing on this important request on November 7, after which a final decision on the price increase will be made.
