Gas prices expected to surge over 100%

Islamabad: Domestic gas prices are anticipated to increase by more than 100 percent, with the government proposing substantial hikes in various sectors, impacting consumers, and businesses alike.

Sources reveal a proposed gas price surge of 129 percent for vulnerable domestic consumers, 136 percent for commercial users, 71 percent for the export sector, 117 percent for non-export industries, and a significant 144 percent increase for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

These changes have been finalized.

The Petroleum division has confirmed that starting from October 1, gas prices for household consumers, including businesses like bakeries and tandoors, will remain unchanged.

However, fixed rates for certain categories have been significantly raised.

Fixed rates for protected customers, consuming up to 600 mmBtu, will increase from Rs. 460 to Rs. 1,000, while consumers using up to 3,100 mmBtu will see their fixed rate jump from Rs. 460 to Rs. 2,000.

The proposed adjustments do not affect the gas tariffs of 57 percent of domestic consumers, but it's important to note that the fixed monthly charge for this category is set to rise from Rs. 10 to a higher amount.

Gas prices, along with electricity and petroleum products, have been increasing consistently in recent months as part of the agreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

These price hikes have had an adverse impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.