Gas leakages can result in major accidents: FPCCI

KARACHI: Convener of the Standing Committee on Energy of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Malik Khuda Bakhsh, said that gas leakages can result in major accidents that not only cause financial losses but also put human lives at risk. He stressed that adequate safety measures are essential to prevent such incidents and that smart LPG monitoring devices can play a significant role in ensuring safety. He expressed these views while addressing participants at the second meeting of the Standing Committee on Energy for the year 2026. Among those present at the meeting were Standing Committee on LPG Convener Ali Haider, Mutahir Salam, Afaq Ali Khan, Nisar A. Latif, Afza Sultana, Naseem Abbasi, Zulfiqar Ahmed Siddiqui, Shah Kamal, Zahid Ghumman, and others. Malik Khuda Bakhsh stated that there appears to be a possibility of easing tensions between Iran and the United States, although recurring tensions continue to threaten prospects for lasting peace. He praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif for playing an important role in reducing the risks of conflict between the two countries, adding that the international community also hopes for a permanent end to such tensions. He further said that LPG and Electric Vehicles (EVs) have become essential needs in modern society. LPG cylinders are an important part of everyday life, making it necessary for consumers to monitor their gas consumption and remaining gas levels. Continuous monitoring not only helps users understand their consumption patterns but also enables timely booking of replacement cylinders. For this purpose, a comprehensive LPG level monitoring and gas leakage detection system can prove highly beneficial. Referring to reports that the upcoming federal budget may impose an 18 percent tax on solar energy equipment, Malik Khuda Bakhsh said that the committee had urged the government to keep the tax rate at 10 percent so that consumers can continue to benefit from affordable alternative energy sources. He also emphasized that the government should expand the tax net rather than placing additional burdens on existing taxpayers. Otherwise, businesses may be forced to shut down, ultimately reducing government tax revenues. Speaking on the occasion, Mutahir Salam said that LPG is highly flammable, and any leakage can create serious hazards, resulting in loss of life and property. To address these challenges, a comprehensive LPG level monitoring and gas leakage detection system has been introduced. He explained that the system utilizes advanced sensors capable of detecting LPG leakage quickly and accurately. The smart system can also be integrated with communication modules to immediately notify users or relevant authorities in case of a gas leak. According to him, the system includes a load cell that continuously monitors the amount of gas remaining in the cylinder. When gas levels fall below a specified threshold and a replacement cylinder is needed, a GSM module automatically notifies the user, enabling timely booking. Upon receiving user confirmation, the system performs the required actions. In addition, gas sensors installed in the system detect LPG leakage and initiate safety measures. Ali Haider said that poor maintenance and lack of public awareness are among the primary causes of gas leakages. Therefore, timely detection of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) leaks is essential to prevent accidents and safeguard human lives. He added that the system is specifically designed for LPG retail stations and combines accurate LPG dispensing with advanced electronic controls, automation integration, and safety features. Its objective is to improve operational efficiency, inventory management, and transaction security. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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