The Ministry of Energy and Water issued the following statement: "The Ministry of Energy and Water regrets the occurrence of this tragic incident, which resulted in the death of two individuals in the town of 'Maqneh' in Bekaa. The incident was caused by the explosion of gas contained in a tanker on board a pickup truck. The Ministry of Energy and Water would like to clarify that this 'tanker' is illegal and does not comply with the standards and requirements mandated by the Ministry of Energy and other relevant ministries. It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Energy has previously sent numerous letters to all security agencies, the latest being letter number 156/W dated January 15, 2024, requesting support and assistance in pursuing the owners of unlicensed tankers that distribute liquefied gas in certain Lebanese areas illegally, without adhering to the minimal public safety requirements, thus posing a danger to the lives of citizens."
The statement further added: "The Ministry always emphasizes the implementation of public safety conditions as stipulated in the prevailing laws, and has established regulatory frameworks for the oil sector, from oil importing companies in Lebanon to companies distributing fuels via tankers, all the way to gas filling and distribution plants and fuel distribution stations operating on Lebanese territory. It is in constant coordination with all official entities and concerned agencies."
The Ministry expressed hope for the strict enforcement of these violations swiftly to prevent similar incidents that could result in innocent lives being lost.
