Citizens demand action against illegal LPG, petrol sales

Express concerns that lack of safety standards could lead to severe accidents

ISLAMABAD:

Residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are calling for urgent action against the unregulated sale of LPG and petrol, warning that these unauthorised practices pose serious public safety risks. Areas such as Bari Imam, Golra, and Koral have seen a rise in illegal vendors selling LPG and petrol, often without proper safety standards.

The residents worry that the lack of safety standards could lead to severe accidents, especially as vendors operate in densely populated areas without essential precautions.

Talking to the media, Naeem Ahmad, a resident, noted that with the winter season approaching and a shortage of sui gas expected, people are forced to refill gas cylinders wherever they can, regardless of safety. He warned that this unregulated trade could trigger a serious incident if left unchecked.

Another resident, Amjad Abbas, shared his concerns saying that many shops openly refill gas cylinders for mini-rickshaws and other vehicles without adhering to safety protocols. Despite these risks, residents claim that the district administration has yet to address the problem effectively.

In response, the district administration in a recent statement said that Assistant Commissioner Nillore Uzair Ali Khan led a raid on two illegal LPG filling centres, confiscating equipment and impounding vehicles. These items were transferred to the police for further investigation. Additionally, two unauthorised petrol agencies were shut down and illegal dispensing machines were seized.

Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon has instructed officials to keep up the pressure on illegal fuel vendors and identify those involved.