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ISLAMABAD: The government has planned to make gas more expensive for the poor people of Pakistan to get more loans from the IMF.
According to the sources, it is proposed to increase gas rates by Rs 100 to Rs 400 for safe and non-safe domestic consumers depending on their consumption.
The latest hike in gas rates will be implemented from August this year and will not only affect domestic consumers but also the fertilizer, cement, and CNG sectors.
The government does not want to change gas rates for tandoors as they serve the working class and other low-income groups.
Earlier, the PML-N government in Punjab had reduced the prices of bread by forcing tandoor owners to sell 100 grams of bread at Rs 15.
The three projects presented by Pakistan are part of the overall discussion revolving around the gas sector revolving credit as well as the required reforms.
Energy reforms for both the gas and power sectors have been a key demand not only of the IMF but also recommended by the World Bank and other International Financial Institutions (IFIs).
Sources also said the two sides have agreed to share data with the IMF on arrears recovery, tariffs, and tariffs.