NMDPRA seals 65 gas plants in Lagos for various infractions
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) says a total number of 65 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plants (otherwise known as cooking gas plants) have been shut down in Lagos from January to October for various infractions.
The shutdown of these gas plants, which is coming at a time there has been reports of gas explosions in the state with some casualties, was done for various reasons such as illegally operating without a valid approval or licence, contravention of guidelines and others.
According to NAN, this disclosure was made by the Zonal Operations Controller of NMDPRA, Mr Ayorinde Cardoso, on Monday, November 22, in Lagos. Cardoso said that LPG plants were shut down for non-compliance with NMDPRA Guidelines and International Safety Standards, adding that some of them were operating without valid approval or license from the Authority.
What the Zonal Operations Controller of NMDPRA is saying
Cardoso pointed out that the action by the agency is to curb the occurrence of gas explosions and fire incidents in the state.
He said, “What we are doing apart from closing these plants is building also more engagements with people that want to go into such businesses.
“So, apart from going around and arresting the operators, we are coming up with proper public enlightenment for both investors and people that are living in that environment.
“People are afraid of such businesses around their environment now due to safety concerns but with public enlightenment, we will be able to get everything in the right perspective.”
He said the agency would continue to clamp down on such illegal plants while at the same time sensitising the public on the need for safe usage and distribution of gas.
What you should know
The Lagos State Government and the Federal Government through their agencies have recently been clamping down on gas plants to help curb the proliferation of LPG facilities, ensure the safety of lives and property of Nigerians as well as help sanitize these facilities by enforcing standards in their operations.
Recall that in September 2021, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Lagos Zone, revealed that it sealed off 59 illegal cooking gas plants in the state from January to June this year.
The illegal Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plants were shut down for various reasons ranging from operating within densely populated areas and other non-approved locations, to operating without approval from DPR and contravening the DPR guidelines for the establishment of LPG refilling plants and retail outlets among others.