Islamabad, March 30,2026: The Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat on Monday expressed serious concern over the rising incidents of gas cylinder explosions across Pakistan, questioning regulatory failures and calling for immediate corrective measures to ensure public safety.
The meeting, chaired by Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti at Parliament House, was attended by Senators Aimal Wali Khan, Saadia Abbasi, Afnan Ullah Khan, Saleem Mandviwalla (via Zoom) and Syed Waqar Mehdi (via Zoom).
The committee held an extensive discussion on the alarming increase in gas cylinder explosions, terming the issue a major public safety concern. Senator Aimal Wali Khan called for a comprehensive, data-driven report on gas cylinder usage, including monthly consumption figures and a consolidated record of explosions over the past decade.
He also stressed the need for accountability and transparency in investigations, noting that weak implementation remains the key challenge. “Laws are made, but implementation is nowhere to be seen,” he remarked, questioning who is responsible for enforcing regulations.
The committee raised concerns over the role and effectiveness of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA), particularly regarding enforcement powers and performance. Members debated whether additional authority should be granted to OGRA, while also questioning existing oversight mechanisms.
Highlighting structural irregularities, Senator Aimal Wali pointed out that while only 18 companies are officially registered nationwide, a single district reportedly hosts around 150 cylinder manufacturers—raising serious regulatory red flags.
To address the issue, he proposed forming a joint, empowered committee comprising members of the National Assembly, Senate, and OGRA officials, emphasizing that the matter requires direct government intervention beyond regulatory bodies.
Senator Saadia Abbasi strongly criticized delays in legislative and executive action, calling them unacceptable. She raised concerns over enforcement against unregistered operators and pointed to wide price variations in the market, with gas cylinders ranging between Rs5,000 and Rs15,000.
The committee also highlighted the unchecked circulation of illegal and substandard cylinders, seeking detailed data on enforcement actions, including FIRs registered, factories shut down, and shops sealed. Members questioned the performance of law enforcement and regulatory institutions, urging clarity on when tangible steps would be taken.
“The government should clarify when practical steps will be implemented—we need results, not just statements,” Senator Abbasi emphasized.
The committee recommended introducing stricter regulatory mechanisms to ensure safety, quality control, and accountability across the gas cylinder supply chain.
Separately, the committee reviewed “The Cannabis Control and Regulatory Authority (Amendment Bill), 2025,” moved by Senator Dr Afnan Ullah Khan. It was informed that the authority’s Board of Directors does not support the proposed amendments at this stage. Following deliberations, the committee unanimously decided not to pass the bill.
The panel was also briefed on budgetary allocations and utilisation under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) by the Cabinet Division, reviewing expenditure trends and development priorities.
The meeting concluded with a strong call for coordinated action, enhanced enforcement, and immediate practical measures to address public safety risks and governance gaps.
