Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) has started a big drive to prevent gas theft and seek public help against fighting this menace. SSGC has started this move after the implementation of The Gas Theft Control and Recovery Act, 2016.
This was informed by SSGC Director Security and Gas Theft Control Mr. Bir Abuzar in a media briefing held at SSGC’s Head Office. Spokesperson Shabaz Ismal also addressed the gathering.
Bir Abuzar told the media that the new Act has given powers to the company to stop gas theft. With this new law, severe penalties and fines will be imposed on those who are found indulging in gas theft, and damaging SSGC’s assets. In Baluchistan and the rest of the country, blasting SSGC’s gas pipelines will be judged as a serious crime and harsh punishments will follow those who are guilty of it.
“The new law is providing the required powers and legal support for the safety and surety of SSGC installations and in prevention of gas theft. A total of 32 Special courts in Sindh and Baluchistan are being established for the hearing of gas theft cases, ” Abuzar added.
Punishment and fines have been increased for those who indulge in industrial gas meter tampering. Under the new law, 10 years prison and fine of Rs. 50 million will be imposed for those who indulge in meter tampering.
With these powers, SSGC also needs the support of the public as well. People can send video and other details on WhatsApp number 03238213346 or email gas.theft.info@ssgc.com.pk.
“People who provide information regarding gas theft will be rewarded. The Gas Theft Control and Recovery Act, 2016 is guaranteeing 5 percent reward of revered money. The bigger the recovery, the better the reward money,” Abuzar added.
SSCG started implementation on this law since August this year. Action against gas theft has already being taken. In Bangoria Goth, Suhrab Goth, Lyari, Gadap, factories , shops , catering centers have been penalized which indulged in gas theft. People have also been caught and sent to jail.
SSGC has started implementing the Gas theft act 2016. In one month, 10 big gas thieves were arrested and cases registered against them. Many criminal elements also involved in gas theft operate in an organized way. SSGC saved 170 million cubic feet resulting from gas theft during this drive.
“In some commercial areas, criminals are operating industrial gas power generator and provide electricity to shops and houses. Each shop has to pay Rs. 2000 per month. This money is then used to finance crime in the city,” Abuzar said.
To prevent domestic gas theft SSGC will provide more support to stop this.
