ISLAMABAD: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has come under fire for failing to protect consumers from malpractice by gas companies, including Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), according to an Audit Report for 2022–23 presented to a sub-committee of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Wednesday.
The report highlights Ogra’s inability to take punitive action against gas utilities, despite repeated instances of consumer exploitation. Key issues cited include excessive billing, unjustified tampering charges—even after Ogra had previously ruled against them—improper meter installations, non-delivery of gas bills, unwarranted late payment surcharges, and prolonged use of provisional billing. Delays in reconnection after disconnection were also noted.
The audit, covering Ogra’s performance in the 2021–22 fiscal year, revealed that consumer grievances were routinely ignored at the initial complaint stage by gas companies, forcing many to escalate their cases to Ogra. Although the regulator did offer relief in some cases, it failed to hold the companies or responsible individuals accountable.
Auditors also requested data on complaints received and resolved at the company level through periodic reports (weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual), but Ogra was unable or unwilling to provide the information.
The findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory reforms and stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure consumer protection and accountability within the gas sector.
Story by Wasim Iqbal
