Fueling stations failing urban planning and safety codes face relocation under new decree

The comprehensive inventory aimed to prevent industrial accidents, ensure strict adherence to safety protocols at fuel distribution sites, and hold licensing authorities more accountable. Inspections covered a total of 6,196 facilities across the country, including traditional petrol stations, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) filling stations, petroleum product retail outlets, and residential gas cylinder refilling points.

The audits revealed 46,737 separate violations and deficiencies. Inspectors categorized the breaches as follows: 25,341 related to industrial and technical safety; 7,949 stemming from fire safety non-compliance; 7,875 tied to flawed technological processes; 3,354 involving technical regulation failures; and 2,218 concerning construction code violations. While 7,166 minor deficiencies were resolved immediately on-site, the severity of the remaining issues led to the immediate temporary closure of the 464 stations.

The government is also introducing stricter equipment regulations to curb long-term operational risks. From September 1, 2026, until January 1, 2030, the use of overpressure equipment at all fuel and gas stations will be heavily restricted. This restriction specifically targets machinery that has exceeded its certified operational lifespan or lacks clear manufacturing documentation to verify its age.

By September 2026, authorities plan to compile a formal registry of all fueling and gas stations that pose a direct threat to public health, environmental safety, or fire and industrial standards. This list will also include facilities violating urban planning codes, such as designated protective buffer zones. Once the registry is finalized, targeted measures will be developed to systematically relocate these non-compliant facilities to safer, designated zones.