ACCORDING to a recent advertisement run on television channels by the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC), if one sees a leakage in gas lines, it is one`s national duty to inform about it at helpline 1199. The SSGC team will arrive at the site and make emergency repairs and arrangements, says the advertisement.

My personal experience in this regard was quite in contrast. It exposed SSGC`s apathy and unprofessional conduct.

I live in Latifabad No 2 in Hyderabad on the main road. Recently, at about 7am, I was informed by a passer-by that the gas line outside my house had some sort of leakage. I immediately contacted 1199 and informed the person concerned of the situation (Complaint No. 1072099303). Later, I reminded the offices a number of times, but nobody turned up. After I had made several calls, I was asked not to worry and that the line would surely be repaired the same day. I was not told at what time that would happen.

The SSGC was simply not bothered about the fact that a huge amount of costly gas was being wasted, and there was a serious risk of fire and explosionthat could have taken place any time and caused serious damage to my house and the surroundings.

Finally, at about 7.30pm, I managed a private plumber with a lot of difficulty because repair of any gas line beyond the meter is only the prerogative of SSGC, and no one can touch it without its permission. It is also disheartening that nobody has even contacted me to inquire aboutthe gasleakage.

It is a very well known fact that SSGC employees receive heavy salaries and perks,buttheir standard ofperformance can be judged from this single incident.

The relevant authorities should take a seriousnotice oftheincident, and ofthe utility service`s utter apathy, which deserves due action against those responsible for such unprofessional conduct.

DrFateh M.Khan Hyderabad