MULTAN: A tragic LPG fire and explosion near the Industrial Estate in Multan has claimed multiple lives and caused extensive property damage. The incident was triggered by the illegal transfer of LPG from a bowser to cylinders at an unauthorized facility, where CO₂ was also being mixed with LPG.
According to preliminary findings, prolonged LPG leakage led to the accumulation of gas in the surrounding area. As LPG is heavier than air, it spread unnoticed until an ignition source triggered a devastating explosion, resulting in severe casualties and destruction.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and the Department of Explosives, which oversee only licensed LPG operations, have condemned the illegal activity. OGRA has launched a thorough investigation, appointing a third-party inspector to collect evidence and determine the precise cause of the explosion. The authority is also working closely with the district administration to intensify crackdowns on illegal LPG operations.
To prevent such tragedies in the future, OGRA has initiated legal action against unauthorized setups and is pushing for amendments in the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) to impose stricter penalties for the illegal handling of LPG and petroleum products. The proposed legal framework is in its final approval stages.
Once the inquiry is completed, OGRA has pledged to take strict action against any licensed entities found responsible for negligence or regulatory violations.
