LPG Association warns of market shortage due to government crackdown on dealers.
The All Punjab LPG Distributors Association has strongly criticized the government’s recent crackdown on the LPG market, which has resulted in the closure of many LPG shops and sparked outrage among shopkeepers and consumers. In a letter to the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore, the association condemned the crackdown as “unacceptable” and accused the government of causing severe economic harm to thousands of LPG shop owners, whom they describe as victims of “economic murder.” They have urgently appealed to the Chief Minister of Punjab to intervene and immediately halt the crackdown.
According to the association, the closure of LPG shops has caused a shortage of LPG in the market, leading to increased black market activities. This situation poses serious risks, including potential accidents due to unsafe storage and handling practices. The recent crackdown primarily targeted shops operating without proper licenses or failing to comply with safety regulations. However, shop owners argue that the enforcement measures are excessively harsh and have left many without a means of livelihood.
The general public, especially those from economically vulnerable backgrounds, has also been severely affected. LPG is a crucial cooking fuel for many households, and the scarcity and inflated prices resulting from black market activities have made it increasingly difficult for these families to afford essential fuel.
The association’s letter emphasized the importance of a balanced approach that ensures regulatory compliance while safeguarding the livelihoods of small business owners and ensuring continued access to essential fuel for the public. They called for an immediate meeting between LPG Marketing Companies, the LPG Distributors’ Association, and urged the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority to intervene to prevent further disruption to LPG supply in Lahore
