LAHORE: The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) says the recent LPG cylinder blast occurring at arestaurantin Narowal, resulting in unfortunate loss of four lives and several injuries, could have been averted if proper safety measures had been in place.

Following an investigation into the tragic incident, the regulator through letters to all provinces, Fata, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir and Islamabad capital territory (ICT),has also sought ensuring implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) by the owners of restaurants while using LPG at their busi-ness places.

The investigation report shared by the regulator attributed the incident primarily to a lack of awareness and negligence on the part of the restaurant staff.

`The absence of hooters/ smoke alarms or gas detectors, improper ventilation in the kitchen where the LPG cylinders were installed, and the non-availability of a special fire extinguisher were key contributing factors [in the fire incident].

Additionally, the restaurant management failed to inform the diners about the fire eruption and instruct them to evacuate promptly,` says the report.

According to a spokesman, Ogra, in the light of the incident, issued the advisory notes to allchief secretaries, seeking their collaboration in raising awareness about the safe use of LPG cylinders in both residential and commercial settings.

He said the regulator emphasised the need to implement the safety criteria at the local level, as LPG is highly inflammable and mishandling it can lead to fatalincidents.

According to the safety SOPs, placement of LPG cylinders must be made in well-ventilated areas, besides installing special fire extinguishers in restaurants. The SOPs seek installation of hooters, smoke alarms and gas detectors and provision of emergency functional exits in restaurants.

The SOPs also include installation, fittings, and valve changesof LPG cylinders through trained staff only.

By ensuring the minimum safety criteria at the district level, Ogra aims to enhance the safety standards in the handling and usage of LPG cylinders.

`It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the restaurant industry, to prioritise the implementation of these measures to ensure the well-being of both customers and employees,` the spokesman said, requesting chief secretaries and other top officials to join hands with the authority in launching comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate the public about safe practices related to LPG usage.

`By working together, we can prevent tragicincidents and protect precious lives,` it said.