Ogra targets illicit LPG mixing in Sukkur

ISLAMABAD: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has launched a crackdown on illegal LPG bowsers and the hazardous practice of mixing carbon dioxide (CO2) with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) near the Panu Aqil cantonment in Sukkur, following concerns raised by the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat.

On August 2, the committee, chaired by Senator Rana Mehmood-ul Hassan, received briefings from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) and Ogra. The committee highlighted the illegal and dangerous practice of mixing CO2 with Iranian and local LPG, a practice that endangers human lives.

Senator Jan Saifullah Khan Dharejo was particularly vocal regarding this practice, prompting the committee to direct Ogra to take strong action while involving law enforcement agencies. He told the committee that these practices are occurring two to three kilometers from the cantonment.

This illicit activity had persisted for months under the nose of the cantonment without any intervention. However, Ogra, in collaboration with the provincial Sindh government and law enforcement agencies, has now taken decisive action to prevent a potential catastrophe in Panu Aqil. The illegal mixing of CO2 gas with LPG has been halted. FIRs have been registered, and court proceedings have been initiated against those violating the law. This prompt intervention has averted a potential disaster that could have resulted in massive explosions, significant damage to public property, and substantial loss of human lives.

Last month, Ogra had written letters to the commissioner of Sukkur and the customs collectorate, urging them to ensure safety at the local level by curtailing the illegal sale of LPG in the area. During the parliamentary panel meeting, senators urged the oil and gas regulator to take practical actions rather than merely writing letters.

On Monday, Ogra announced it had taken serious note of the illegal practice of mixing CO2 with LPG. The mixing has been reported in various locations across Sindh province, particularly in Panu Aqil near Sukkur.

LPG is highly flammable, and the illegal mixing of CO2 poses severe risks, including adverse environmental impacts. CO2 has a higher pressure than LPG, which can lead to serious safety concerns as equipment designed for LPG may not function properly.