ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Consumers already facing rising living costs may have to deal with another increase in gas prices, as the country’s two major gas utilities have submitted requests for higher tariffs.
According to the proposals, Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has sought an increase of Rs370 per MMBtu, while Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) has proposed a hike of Rs10 per MMBtu.
Meanwhile, SSGC has issued a clarification regarding reports of increased gas bills in Quetta, attributing the higher charges to the onset of winter and increased gas consumption. The company also said that tariffs determined by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) have contributed to the rise in bills.
An SSGC spokesperson explained that some consumers allegedly tamper with gas meters to avoid higher bills. In such cases, the company calculates bills on the basis of the consumer’s connected load.
The spokesperson added that consumers can request a meter replacement and laboratory testing. If the test establishes that additional charges were unjustified, the amount collected will be refunded.
To address complaints, SSGC has also established a help desk at its Balochistan Regional Office in Quetta, operating under the supervision of the Quetta Regional Manager.
The company further stated that despite facing significant financial losses, it continues to supply gas to Quetta.
