Govt proposes stricter LPG, explosives laws

ISLAMABAD: The government has moved to impose stricter penalties for unauthorised handling and storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and explosives, proposing it as non-bailable offence with up to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment and fines as high as Rs20 million. The enhanced penalties aim to curb violations that pose serious risks to human lives and property.

Currently, offenders face a relatively lenient punishment of up to six months in prison or a fine of Rs3,000, or both. This has been criticised as insufficient to deter illegal activities in the LPG sector. “The existing penalties fail to address the gravity of violations, which can result in catastrophic consequences,” an official from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) told The News on Saturday.

The proposed amendments include significant changes to the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) and Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Under Section 294-D, unauthorised storage and handling of petroleum and explosives would become non-bailable offenses, punishable by up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines of Rs10 million.

For unauthorised manufacturing of equipment and machinery under Section 294-E, the penalty would increase to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and fines of up to Rs20 million. The most severe penalties are proposed under Section 294-F, targeting unauthorised storage and handling that result in danger, injury, death, or property damage, with offenders facing up to 14 years in prison and fines of Rs10 million or both.

Ogra has already submitted the proposed amendments to the government, which have been reviewed by the Law Division and other relevant ministries. “These amendments were sent to the Cabinet Division late last year and are now awaiting further deliberation before incorporation through proper legislative channels,” the official added.

The stricter measures come amid growing concerns about public safety and the need to ensure compliance in the LPG sector. Officials hope the new penalties will act as a strong deterrent to illegal practices, ultimately reducing risks to human life and property.

Meanwhile, Ogra on Saturday reinforced safety protocols for the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry, directing manufacturers of LPG bowzers and storage tanks to comply with strict safety standards. The directive, issued during a high-level meeting at Ogra’s regional office in Lahore, aims to curb unauthorised practices and enhance public safety.

Chaired by the Ogra Member Oil, the meeting was attended by senior officials from the LPG and Enforcement departments.

Manufacturers were instructed to ensure that LPG bowzers are not made with capacities exceeding 30 metric tons, excluding the permitted 15 percent allowance. Strict compliance with safety regulations was emphasised to minimise risks associated with LPG handling and transportation.

The regulator also issued a stern warning to unauthorised and illegal manufacturers, announcing plans to collaborate with local administrations to crack down on unsafe practices.