Consumers, both protected and non-protected, are poised to face a significant uptick in gas prices, according to the sources within the industry. The media reports indicate that protected consumers can anticipate a Rs. 10 per mmbtu hike, while their non-protected counterparts will see a steeper increase of Rs. 300 per mmbtu. Crucially, there will be no adjustment to fixed charges for either group, although heavy gas users can expect a substantial Rs. 900 per mmbtu rise in prices. The impact of this price adjustment extends to various sectors, including the CNG industry, where prices per mmbtu will climb by Rs. 170. Engro Fertilizer, among other entities, will also feel the pinch with increased gas rates, effective from March 1st. These adjustments come into effect retrospectively, with the increased prices slated to apply from February 1st. Overall, consumers are bracing for a collective burden of Rs. 204 billion due to the escalation in gas prices, a change that will also affect captive power plants.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)