Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-23 12:59:49
Stakeholders and leaders from districts in Tooro sub-region recently gathered to address concerns regarding the proliferation of fuel stations in rural communities. They emphasized the need for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the Uganda National Bureau of Standards to regulate these fuel stations to ensure they meet required standards and do not pose potential dangers in the future.
The stakeholders meeting, held on March 19 in Fort Portal City, brought attention to the lack of adherence to standards in many districts. Mr. Edgar Mugazi, the Bunyangabu District Environmental Officer, highlighted the disconnect between the Ministry of Energy and UNBS, stating that many licensed stations in his district fail to meet standards, making inspection and enforcement challenging.
Similarly, Mr. Julius Bigabwa, the Kyenjojo District Environmental Officer, raised concerns about the lack of verified vehicles for fuel transport to some stations. He attributed non-compliance to the absence of focal persons for monitoring and reporting in districts, due to the centralized nature of the ministry and UNBS.
The issue of using motorcycles to transport fuel in jerricans to rural outlets was also addressed, emphasizing the safety risks associated with this practice. The stakeholders questioned the process of sealing non-compliant fuel stations and the handling of fuel in their tanks. They also raised concerns about the proximity of fuel stations to residential areas and schools, citing a past incident where a fuel truck explosion resulted in casualties.
Officials from the Ministry of Energy defended the placement of fuel tanks underground, claiming minimal risk to communities. They attributed the increasing number of fuel stations to high demand for petroleum products. Mr. Peter Kitimbo from UNBS highlighted the government’s fuel marking and quality monitoring program to ensure consumer satisfaction and combat fuel adulteration, smuggling, and dumping.
Despite a high national compliance rate of 99.3 percent, regional disparities in compliance were noted, with the western region exhibiting the highest non-compliance rate. Kitimbo emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations and warned against tampering with seals on fuel stations, which could result in significant penalties.
In conclusion, the stakeholders emphasized the need for stricter regulation and enforcement to ensure the safety and quality of fuel stations in rural communities. By working together with government agencies, they aim to address the challenges posed by non-compliant fuel stations and protect the wellbeing of communities in Tooro sub-region.
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