KARACHI: The role of utilities within the country is always amazing for consumers; whether it is electricity, water distribution and sewerage system, environmental cleanliness or gas suppliers. 

The latest adventure by SSGC as reported by consumers is hundred percent increase in the bills against previous usage throughout the six months including winter season, while the supply of gas has been already affected by frequent load shedding. How could a person consume extra gas while there is a fix timing and volume of supplies and gas closing all over 24 hours and 30-days for domestic consumers? Interestingly February was just 28 days. In addition to gas charges the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) also charging Rs 40 as meter rent, Rs 400 fixed charges, plus general sales tax etc each month without any justification. But nobody cares from the rulers and the bureaucrats who are duty-bound for running the system justly.  In October 2024 Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority had called on the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) to clarify the charges related to geysers in gas bills. SSGC had to provide a written explanation regarding the costs of geysers and their associated installation charges.

OGRA clarified that consumers were not obligated to use SSGC contractors for the installation of geysers and were free to arrange their own installations. However, the regulatory body stressed that it remains the consumer’s responsibility to ensure proper installation to conserve energy.  The controversy stemmed from SSGC’s move to begin collecting additional charges for “conical baffles” as part of its geyser campaign. Consumers were surprised to find extra charges of Rs.2,085/- listed on their bills under the name “conical baffle.” These charges were applied to millions of consumers in SSGC’s 3.2 million customer network, sparking widespread complaints, especially as some consumers were charged despite not having geysers installed. In response to the public outcry, OGRA issued a clarification, stating that the installation of conical baffles was authorized to improve safety and reduce gas bills for consumers.

The regulatory authority further advised that consumers who were charged for geysers they didn’t have should file complaints directly with SSGC or OGRA. SSGC stated that surveys were conducted for the installation of the conical baffles, and the charges were applied only after receiving OGRA’s approval. Installation contractors have already started the process, and consumers were encouraged to reach out to the nearest Customer Facilitation Center (CFC) for any concerns regarding the charges.

However, the ongoing issue continues to affect millions of consumers, with both SSGC and OGRA working to address grievances and clarify the reasons behind the additional charges.