Story by Providence Maraneli
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is working on banning mobile liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) filling following an increase in explosions related to unsafe gas trading.
The authority (ZERA) is concerned with the increase in fire incidences involving door-to-door and mobile filling of LPG in residential areas.
As such the regulatory authority is working on modalities of introducing stiffer penalties for offenders.
Speaking during a media stakeholder engagement in Bulawayo this week, ZERA’s head of Petroleum, Engineer Andrew Guri said they have confiscated more than 300 LPG cylinders smuggled into the country.
“We have seen a lot of fire incidences involving mobile filling of LPG, but we should make it clear it is illegal and gas is a very dangerous substance that needs to be handled carefully,” said Engineer Guri.
Liquefied petroleum resellers are also working with the agency to promote safe use.
“We used to run away from ZERA officials, but now we are working together to improve our standards. We are working towards the President’s vision,” Petroleum dealer, Craig Andrew said.
Zimbabwe is one of the major consumers of LPG in Southern Africa. In 2022, LPG consumption stood at 59.89 million kilogrammes representing a 5.47% rise from 56.78 million kilogrammes in 2021.
