CNG prices likely to be increased
By Muhammad Ali Malik

ISLAMABAD—CNG association of Pakistan (CNGAP) has decided to increase the price of Compressed Natural Gas to Rs 2.5 per kg after the 9% increase in the electricity prices.
After this increase, one would have to pay 20 rupees more for eight kg slender.
CNGAP sources told Online that all CNG stations used CNG on commercial basis and after increase in the tariff of electricity rates, expense of these stations has increased and owners face loss. Therefore in order to cover up these losses the CNG prices are likely to be increased.
In this respect when OGRA was contacted an official on the condition of anonymity said that it has a special system of checking and scrutinizing the precautionary measures of CNG stations but it has no authority to decide on CNG prices.
During last five years, total number of cars running on CNG has reached to the number of 1.2 million and after the increase in petrol and electricity prices the increase in CNG prices would worsen the situation for the people.
According to the Authority, the system of annual safety inspection of the CNG stations, through third party inspectors streamlined the monitoring process for rectification of safety-related deficiencies.
The Authority is in the process of selection of additional third party inspectors in order to speed up the process of annual and pre-commissioning and re-inspection of CNG stations.
Fines and penalties were imposed under the CNG rules, on the licensees involved in repeated safety violations, in addition to disconnection of gas supplies.
Regulatory monitoring of conformance of standards has been ensured for new brands of CNG cylinders and conversion kits as per applicable rules.
Public awareness campaign launched through print media to promote use of approved brands of CNG conversion kits and cylinders to ensure public safety.
Surprise inspections to check measurement and safety violations on specific complaints.
Meetings with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to ensure compliance of safety regulations and procedures at CNG stations established at their retail outlets.
The local manufacturing of CNG equipments including CNG compressors, dispensers, priority panels and CNG conversion kits allows local industry to manufacture and compete with the imported brands.
The Authority, during the last few years, has approved five different brands of CNG conversion kits for local manufacturing subject to stringent regulatory criteria.
This also includes setting up of a state-of-the-art kits assembling plant under a joint venture agreement by a local company with a foreign company.