Rawalpindi bans use of large gas cylinders and calcium carbide tanks

The Rawalpindi district administration has banned the use of large gas cylinders in densely populated areas, double-story buildings, multi-story basements, and congested marketplaces with the onset of summer. The ban also covers welding shops using calcium carbide tanks and welding kits.

The deputy commissioner directed the Civil Defence Department to launch operations against violators, especially targeting shops and traditional ovens. District Civil Defence Officer Talib Hussain said rising temperatures increase the risks posed by large gas cylinders stored in urban areas.

Welding shops using calcium carbide tanks were also highlighted as serious safety hazards in case of overheating or electrical faults. So far, 212 notices have been issued and 16 establishments have been sealed.

Shop owners have been directed to shift to piped natural gas or use smaller cylinders to minimize risks. Enforcement teams are conducting operations across the city and cantonment areas and will soon expand to Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan, Gujar Khan, and Taxila.