News
Gas cylinder explosions: Compensation package on the back burner
View(s):Shattering people’s hopes for the New Year, gas cylinder-related explosions continue in various parts of the country, while a cooking gas shortage continues to cause hardship to the people, with the Government and the gas companies not giving the assurance the people seek.
Since the first explosions were reported, there have been calls that there should be a proper compensation package for those who have lost family members, suffered injuries or damage to property. Many have commented that financial reparation could be the bare minimum that can be offered to victimised families.
Mannar: All that's left of a home after a gas cylinder explosion recently. Pic by Romesh Madushanka
Human Rights Commission member Dr. Nimal Karunasiri said the commission’s recommendations were being finalised and would be handed over on Wednesday to the authorities and the directors and chairpersons of the two gas companies – Litro and Laugfs,”
“With some 800 gas-cylinder explosions in recent months, we have had one main complaint filed by one activist group. With regards to compensation, we have made recommendations to the relevant authorities,” he said.
Meanwhile, gas company officials said talks were being held with the authorities to find a permanent solution. They said they had also taken several interim measures, which included awareness campaigns on the correct and safe uses of appliances and whether the equipment conformed to the proper standards.
A housewife from Kandy said she was disheartened by the lack of progress in working out a compensation scheme for the victims although the explosions had been taking place for the past several months.
“For many people 2021 was a challenging and troublesome year. The news about continuing explosions is not promising for the New Year,” she said.
A dismayed Mount-Lavinia resident said: “I think it is horrifying that there has been no news of compensation. We also note that reports about explosions are not getting enough media exposure now. The long queues to buy gas send a wrong message to the companies that the people trust their products.”
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