Reps move to probe CNG cylinder explosion in Edo

…Seeks legislation to regulate sector

By Christiana Ekpa

The House of Representatives Wednesday resolved to investigate the CNG cylinder explosion in Edo State, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives and severe injuries.
The House equally called for the establishment of legislation to regulate the production, installation, and use of CNG tanks and systems in vehicles.
The House move would ensure that these processes comply with internationally recognized safety standards and prevent the manufacture of substandard CNG tanks by unqualified individuals.
These followed the adoption of the urgent public importance motion moved by Fuad Kayode Laguda (APC, Lagos), urging the relevant departments of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to collaborate in enforcing strict certification standards for CNG tank production and installation.
They also emphasized the need for only qualified and accredited workshops to be authorized for CNG vehicle conversions.
The House directed the Nigerian Institute of Welding (NIW) and other relevant agencies to develop training and certification programs for local artisans and workshops involved in CNG tank fabrication and installation to ensure that only certified professionals handle such highly sensitive tasks.
It advocate for the creation of a mandatory inspection and certification program for all vehicles using CNG, including periodic integrity checks of both the CNG cylinders and the vehicles on which they are mounted, thereby preventing dangerous failures.
It directs the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to work in conjunction with relevant government bodies to monitor and enforce environmental safety standards in the manufacturing and usage of CNG tanks.
Also, it direct the Nigerian Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to establish clear guidelines for the safe conversion of vehicles to CNG use and ensure that these guidelines are adhered to by all workshops and vehicle conversion centers.