Despite the tragic loss of hundreds of lives due to recurring LPG cylinder and bowser explosions across the country, the Ministry of Law and Justice has failed to approve the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority’s (OGRA) LPG Industry Amendment Bill—pending for over two years.
Read More: Pakistan Eyes $200 Million Boost in Halal Meat Exports Through Malaysia Deal
The proposed bill recommends strict penalties, including:
-
10 years’ imprisonment and a Rs. 10 million fine for illegal practices in the LPG sector.
-
14 years’ imprisonment and a Rs. 15 million fine for those involved in fatal LPG cylinder or bowser blasts.
According to LPG industry officials, over 36 letters have been sent to the Law Ministry, urging action on the bill—but no progress has been made. The delay continues despite a growing number of fatalities caused by substandard equipment and hazardous gas mixtures.
In a recent letter addressed to the Prime Minister, the LPG Distributors Association of Pakistan raised alarm over the absence of a proper legal framework to regulate safety within the industry. The association noted that current laws offer negligible penalties and do little to deter malpractice.
The Association also highlighted the illegal mixing of CO₂ gas in LPG, which is resulting in daily explosions—yet offenders are routinely let off without punishment.
In a video statement, Association Chairman Irfan Khokhar revealed alarming statistics:
“Every day, we witness two explosions and at least four fatalities due to substandard LPG cylinders and bowsers. Just last year, bowser blasts in D.G. Khan and Hyderabad caused severe casualties. Recently, five lives were lost in Lahore due to another LPG explosion.”
Khokhar stressed the urgency of the situation, calling on Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar to immediately present the amendment bill to Parliament.
“We respectfully urge the government to enforce a nationwide ban on the manufacture and sale of non-compliant LPG cylinders, bowsers, and valves,” said Khokhar. “If the bill continues to be ignored, we will have no choice but to protest.”
The Association warns that without swift legislative action, illegal and dangerous practices will continue unchecked—putting countless lives at risk.
