Skyrocketing LPG prices hit Pakistani households, Force families to return to wood-fired cooking
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Pakistan is facing a serious cooking gas crisis, with LPG prices rising sharply and supplies running short. The situation has forced many families to use firewood and coal to cook their daily mea
According to media reports, LPG is selling for up to PKR 630 per kg in the open market, more than double the official rate of PKR 294 per kg. This means an 11.8-kg domestic gas cylinder, which has an official price of around PKR 3,470, can cost nearly PKR 7,434 in the open market.
A report by The Express Tribune said families in Rawalpindi have started using firewood, coal and kerosene oil for cooking due to high gas prices and limited supplies. Natural gas is reportedly available for only around six hours a day in some areas.
The cost of firewood has also increased. Ordinary firewood is selling for PKR 1,300 to PKR 1,400 per 40 kg, while dry firewood costs between PKR 1,500 and PKR 1,800. Coal is selling for PKR 800 to PKR 1,000 per 40 kg.
The price of empty domestic gas cylinders has also increased from PKR 10,000 to PKR 13,500. Meanwhile, the cost of refilling a cylinder has reportedly gone up from PKR 3,000 to PKR 5,000.
According to Reuters, disruptions in LPG supplies from Iran have further worsened the shortage, with cylinder prices rising in several parts of the country. A 12-kg cylinder, which earlier cost PKR 4,500, has reportedly risen to PKR 7,000 in Balochistan, PKR 7,500 in Lahore and PKR 8,200 in Skardu.
The rising cost of cooking fuel has added to the problems of ordinary families, many of whom are now struggling to manage their daily meals.