By Amara Thoronka
The Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) has suspended application for the construction of new gas stations in the Western Area and along the entire stretch of the Freetown-Masiaka Highway. In a press release dated Monday, 19th August, 2024, the country’s petroleum regulatory body said the suspension is with immediate effect.
There have been concerns over the increasing construction of new gas stations, especially within the areas mentioned.
Justifying the suspension of new gas station within the said areas, PRA said, “The regulatory policy is aimed at preventing the proliferation of unauthorized gas stations that violate suitability guidelines, safety policies and unfair trade practices,” adding, “all applications for the construction of gas stations in the specified areas will not be accepted by the agency.”
The petroleum agency also warned that, “All unregistered gas stations under construction within the specified areas must cease operations immediately. Any on-going construction without the required approvals and permits will be considered illegal and subject to appropriate enforcement actions.”
PRA noted that the directives also relate to all unregistered and unlicensed gas stations within the specified areas, while warning construction firms, oil suppliers and dealers to cooperate with the directives or face the consequences.