Srinagar, April 02: In a concerning trend, several LPG gas distribution agencies in Srinagar are storing gas cylinders in unsafe conditions, putting public safety at significant risk. Many of these cylinders are kept in poorly maintained godowns, some of which are located in densely populated residential and commercial areas, increasing the chances of dangerous gas leaks, fires and explosions.
Residents in areas such as Batamaloo, Bemina, Soura, Eidgah, Downtown, Safakadal and Gowkadal have raised concerns over the potential hazards posed by these unsafe storage practices. Many fear that a minor leak could lead to a major disaster, given the proximity of these godowns to residential and commercial buildings.
“We live in constant fear. Some of these godowns are not even properly ventilated. A small spark could result in a catastrophe,” said Fahad, a resident of Bemina. Similar concerns were voiced by residents of Safakadal, where gas cylinders are stored near crowded marketplaces.
Eyewitnesses have also reported unsafe handling practices. “I have seen delivery trucks unloading cylinders in the middle of the road. This is an accident waiting to happen,” said Ashraf, a shopkeeper in Downtown.
Another resident from Soura expressed distress over the situation. “We have young children at home, and it terrifies me to know that these cylinders are stored just meters away. The authorities must intervene before something tragic happens.”
Compounding the danger, many storage units reportedly lack even basic fire safety measures. “There are no fire extinguishers or emergency exits. If a fire breaks out, it will spread rapidly,” said Imtiaz, a resident of Eidgah.
Meanwhile, gas agency dealers have acknowledged the challenges they face in adhering to safety protocols. A dealer in Eidgah, requesting anonymity, explained, “We understand the concerns of the public, but the reality is that the demand for LPG is high, and many of us are struggling to find proper storage spaces. It’s not that we are ignoring safety, but the infrastructure needs to be upgraded to meet the standards.”
Another dealer from Batamaloo added, “We are fully aware of the risks, but we are simply not equipped with the right resources to ensure everything is up to code. The government needs to step in and provide support to help us follow safety protocols properly.”
Experts stress that improper storage of LPG cylinders violates safety regulations and poses an immediate threat to lives and property. Standard safety protocols require gas cylinders to be stored in well-ventilated, fire-resistant facilities equipped with firefighting equipment. However, many local gas agencies appear to be ignoring these guidelines, prioritizing convenience over public safety.
As per Section 21 of The Gas Cylinders Rules, 2004, LPG cylinders must be stored in a safe, well-ventilated area, away from sources of ignition. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties and legal action. Similarly, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order, 2000 mandates strict safety adherence by all entities involved in storage and distribution. Despite these regulations, violations continue unchecked.
When approached for comment, an official from the Fire Department in Srinagar said, “As per regulations, the Fire Department does not have the authority to enforce safety compliance in this matter. It is the responsibility of the gas agencies.” This lack of direct enforcement has further heightened public concern.
With lives at stake, residents are demanding immediate action against violators and stricter safety enforcement. “It is high time the government intervenes to prevent a disaster,” said Hamad, a concerned resident of Batamaloo. Until firm action is taken, many fear that Srinagar is sitting on a ticking time bomb — one that could have devastating consequences if ignored any longer.
