Gas prices increase by Rs. 195

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The price of a domestic gas cylinder has been increased by Rs. 195 with effect from midnight tonight (September 26). The Consumer Affairs Authority said gas companies were permitted to increase the price of a gas cylinder. The Cost of Living Committee was vested with the power of deciding on the price - and it was decided to increase the price by Rs. 195. Following the increase, the new price of a domestic gas cylinder stands at Rs. 1733, A Spokesperson for the Finance Ministry said the price of a domestic gas cylinder could vary from district to district based on transportation costs. In this backdrop, the LP Gas Distributors Association of Sri Lanka convened a media briefing in order to seek an increase in transportation costs as well. President of the LP Gas Distributors Association, Sathyendra Wijayapura stated that the price of gas had fluctuated on 35 separate occasions following the introduction of the 2007 price formula. The association calls for an increase to their rates by Rs 7 per cylinder that is transported. He added that if the price is not managed it would be difficult for them to continue their services. As fuel prices were increased on several instances, with effect from midnight on the 20th this month bus fares were also increased by 04%, the fares of school transport vans increased by 05% and with effect from the 01st of October train fares are set to increase by 15%.