Tshwane Emergency Services Department has shut down an illegal liquified petroleum gas (LPG) depot located at L130 Scheepers Street, Laezonia AH.

The closure of the LPG depot marks the culmination of ongoing efforts by the City of Tshwane to address illegal business practices that pose a threat to public safety. Initially closed in December after a contravention notice was issued, the depot’s owner defied orders by reopening, leading to further intervention. Charles Mabaso, the department’s spokesperson, highlighted the significance of the closure, pointing out the risk the illegally erected 9,000-litre LPG storage tanks posed to the community. The city’s proactive stance showcases its dedication to upholding the law and protecting its citizens.

The saga began with vigilant Laezonia residents raising alarms about the depot’s operation without the necessary authorizations. Their concerns, primarily centered around safety risks, prompted the city to take initial action.

The reopening of the depot, despite the issued contravention notice, not only disregarded legal directives but also the community’s well-being. This disregard for both law and safety catalyzed the city’s resolute response to permanently shut down the facility. The engagement of the community and their role in ensuring their own safety is a testament to the power of collective vigilance.

Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson, Charles Mabaso, says the inspection was a follow-up on an inspection that was conducted in December 2023 following a complaint from concerned members of the public.

“During the December 2023 site inspection, the owner of the facility was issued a contravention notice to cease operations and close the facility, where two 9 000-litre LPG storage tanks were erected without the necessary permits. However, on 19 February 2024, fire safety officers found employees on the site loading LPG cylinders on to an unroadworthy bakkie and trailer.

Upon further investigation, it was determined that the illegal installation was filling assorted sizes of LPG cylinders, ranging from 9 kg to 19 kg and 48 kg,” says Mabaso. Mabaso says additional support from the Tshwane Metro Police Department was requested and, upon arrival, the team confiscated equipment used to fill and scale LPG cylinders. The owner was also  issued with a R15 000 contravention fine on three offences.

“During the period, the owner arranged a certified truck to remove 43 LPG cylinders (25 x 48 kg, 10 x 19 kg and 8 x 9 kg cylinders) from the site to a site in Midrand which the owner alleges is certified.

“City officials will engage Johannesburg Fire Safety to monitor the compliance of this company,” he adds.

Mabaso says the owner of the facility promised to appoint a service provide to decant and remove the two illegally erected tanks.

“The department will randomly monitor the site to ensure that operations are never resumed.

“The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department is monitoring the plots in Laezonia because an illegal diesel depot was also discovered and closed in the area in 2023.

“The department further calls on residents to desist from establishing illegal businesses that process, handle, store and distribute hazardous substances without the necessary permits from the City of Tshwane and relevant government departments,” says Mabaso.

The closure of the Laezonia LPG depot is more than just an enforcement action; it is a clear message to businesses operating outside the bounds of legality. The City of Tshwane has demonstrated its unwillingness to compromise on public safety and legal compliance. For other businesses, this serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of adhering to regulations and the consequences of defiance. Moving forward, the city’s firm stance is likely to inspire greater compliance and foster a safer environment for all residents.

The incident in Laezonia is a reminder of the critical role that both authorities and citizens play in safeguarding public safety. By working together, they can address potential hazards and ensure that community well-being is not compromised by illegal activities.

As the City of Tshwane continues to monitor and enforce safety regulations, it sets a precedent for accountability and responsibility that others are sure to follow.

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