Almost 90% of industries in Karachi and other industrial zones in Sindh and Balochistan were reported closed on Monday, according to industrialists protesting against increased gas tariffs.
Businessmen Group (BMG) Vice Chairman Jawed Bilwani stated that industries are demanding a reduction in gas tariffs to Rs1,350 per mmBtu, as determined by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), with a 22% profit for Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC). He expressed concern that the new tariffs are unaffordable and criticized the government’s focus on borrowing rather than boosting exports and industries. Bilwani highlighted the neglect of industries, despite their significant role in the economy. Plans for a strategy will be developed after consulting members, but industries are set to resume normal operations. SAI President Muhammad Kamran Arbi urged government officials to engage with industry leadership for a prompt resolution. OGRA Chairman Masroor Khan, addressing queries at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), explained OGRA’s gas tariff mechanism and emphasized the need for government guidance on charging consumers in various categories.
