Govt Likely to Increase Fixed Charges in Gas Bills by 50%

The federal government is set to increase fixed charges for domestic gas consumers, starting July 1. The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has decided to maintain gas prices to protect household consumers with only fixed charges re-adjusted in domestic sector to recover the asset costs. Under the approved summary submitted by Petroleum Division, seeking approval for a revised natural gas pricing structure for the fiscal year 2025–26, the fixed charge for those previously paying Rs. 400 has been increased to Rs. 600, according to sources. Those who were paying Rs. 1,000 as a fixed charge will now pay Rs. 1,500, while the consumers who were paying Rs. 2,000 will now be required to pay Rs. 3,000, sourced added. The increase in fixed charges will take effect from July 1, provided the federal cabinet approves the ECC decision.