The Oil and Gas Organization (OGRA) launched an investigation into the explosion of the LPG carrier near the industrial property in Multan, which killed and wounded 38 people. A third party inspector was appointed to collect evidence and determine the exact cause of the accident.
OGRA coordinates with the boycott administration to impose tougher measures against illegal LPG operations. Upon completion of the investigation, strict measures will be taken against any licensed entities that have been found. The organizer also suggested amendments to the Pakistani Penal Code (PPC), as it provided harsh penalties for illegal dealing with petroleum gas and petroleum products. The law is currently in the final approval stages.
According to OGRA, the explosion resulted from illegal LPG transfer from BowSER to CDs and CO₂ mixing with LPG in an unauthorized facility. The prolonged leakage of liquefied natural gas allowed the accumulation in the region, leading to the burning and the devastating explosion. The organizer affirmed that he is accurately monitors the licensed buildings, but also takes proactive steps to reduce illegal operations through joint procedures and legal procedures.
After the tragedy of Multan, another LPG fire broke out in Dera Ghazi Khan on Tuesday. The head of the LPG Irfan Khokhar has called for a high -level urgent investigation in both incidents. He warned that mixing CO₂ with LPG poses severe risks to public safety and industry. CO₂ pressure ranges between 900 and 1,200 pounds, much higher than LPG from 90 to 130 PSI, which creates great risks. He pointed out that the difference in the price between LPG (PKR 235 per kg) and CO₂ (PKR 25 per kg) stimulates illegal confusion.
Khokhir criticized the weak gaps of enforcement and legislation, saying that despite OGRA, unsafe practices are still in place. He called for an urgent government intervention to finalize stronger legal measures. On the pretext that CO₂ Mix stations operate with the support of LPG BowSER drivers and local authorities, urged a strict action against officials.
LPG BOWSERS licenses, and urged the Ministry of Petroleum’s offense to introduce a modern monitoring system for their operations. These incidents emphasize the urgent need for the most powerful enforcement and mechanisms of legal control and legal reforms to protect public safety and the safety of the LPG sector.
