MERA Cracks Down on Illicit Filling, Sale of 'Orphan' LPG Cylinders
MERA has directed all retailers to sensitize their staff and customers to adhere strictly to the regulations, warning that the authority will embark on verification exercises nationwide.
LILONGWE, Malawi-The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has sounded the alarm over the unsafe practice of filling and selling unauthorized "orphan" liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders in the country, vowing strict enforcement action, writes Tionge Hara.
In a stern communication to stakeholders, MERA Chief Executive Officer Henry Kachaje reminded retailers that refilling orphan LPG cylinders at their outlets is prohibited under the country's regulations governing the LPG sector.
Orphan cylinders refer to gas bottles that have not been certified for use and refilling in Malawi, posing potential safety hazards.
"The Authority has noted with great concern the malpractice of filling and selling orphan cylinders in the country. This is an unsafe practice contrary to the LPG regulations," Kachaje stated.
He reiterated concerns raised during stakeholder consultation meetings held on October 30 and November 1, 2023, at Mount Soche and the Blantyre Indutrial Commercial Complex (BICC).
MERA has directed all retailers to sensitize their staff and customers to adhere strictly to the regulations, warning that the authority will embark on verification exercises nationwide.