PESHAWAR: Residents of Peshawar are grappling with a sharp increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices as traders take advantage of an ongoing shortage of Sui Gas, pushing rates from Rs400 to Rs550 per kilogram despite the government-fixed price of Rs300 per kg.
The persistent low pressure and frequent disruption of piped natural gas supplies have forced households to increasingly rely on LPG cylinders, leading to a surge in demand. Exploiting the situation, many dealers have imposed arbitrary rates, with prices varying across different parts of the city.
The sudden price hike has sparked widespread concern among consumers, who have urged authorities to take action against profiteering. Responding to numerous public complaints, the district administration launched a citywide crackdown on LPG dealers violating official pricing regulations.
During inspection raids, authorities found several shopkeepers operating without displaying official price lists, while others were caught selling LPG at rates far above the government-approved price. As a result, 67 LPG dealers were arrested and 53 shops were sealed for overcharging and other violations.
Officials said legal action has been initiated against those involved, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring the availability of LPG at official rates.
Story by Ahtesham Bashir
