New autogas refuelling station licence applications suspended until further notice

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The government has suspended the acceptance and consideration of new applications for licences to set up autogas refuelling stations until further notice, citing the need for necessary measures by relevant authorities.

The Energy and Mineral Resources Division under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources issued a directive in this regard on July 15 through its Operation-3 branch. The letter, signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Milton Roy, was sent to the Office of the Chief Inspector of Explosives.

According to the letter, all newly submitted applications seeking licences for autogas refuelling stations will not be considered until further instructions are issued.

However, the ministry did not mention any specific reason behind the suspension of new licence applications. Officials concerned believe the decision may have been taken as part of a review of existing policies, safety measures, market management and the overall licensing process for autogas stations.

At present, approval from the Department of Explosives is mandatory for licensing and safety monitoring of autogas refuelling stations. Under existing regulations, applicants must obtain design approval and licences before establishing new stations or making modifications to existing facilities.

Operators are also required to comply with safety guidelines under the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Rules, 2004 while running autogas stations. Industry insiders believe the suspension of new applications could be linked to a broader assessment of the sector’s current condition and safety standards.