The Energy Regulatory and Petroleum Authority (EPRA) has ordered the closure of select petrol stations while issuing a directive on the effects of heavy rains on petrol stations and other energy facilities.
EPRA in a statement on May 1, 2024, directed that any retail petrol station which has been flooded should temporarily remain closed and monitored, warning that heavy rains and floods may pose a big risk to the energy and petroleum infrastructure.
According to the Authority, flood waters or extended periods of heavy rain, may lead to damaged Petroleum Underground Storage Tank (UST) systems or discharge of products to the surface.
“Particularly, flood waters or extended periods of heavy rain, may lead to damaged Petroleum Underground Storage Tank (UST) systems or discharge of products to the surface. Presence of water in the UST affects the quality of Petroleum products which may lead to breakdown of motor vehicles,” read part of the statement.
The Authority issued a stern warning to owners of the retail stations to ensure safety of the public and quality of their products ordering that any retail petrol station which has been flooded to temporarily remain closed and monitored.
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EPRA Directive Amid Flooding
“The retail stations should assess the extent of the flooding, clean up any debris and ensure the quality of its products before resuming operations.
Additionally, retail station owners should anticipate any potential environmental impact of the flooding and take appropriate measures to mitigate it,” the statement adds.
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Based on the severity of the flooding, the retail stations were hereby directed to immediately communicate with relevant Government authorities or regulatory Agencies to ensure compliance with any necessary protocols or regulations.
In addition, the Authority announced that it remains available to offer any necessary assistance to ensure safety of the public and quality of Petroleum products.
This directive by EPRA comes at a rime flood extended rains and severe floods are currently being experienced in most parts of the country.
The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) in a statement issued a warning of continuing heavy rainfall in most parts of the country in the coming days.
KMD has also warned that the water levels in rivers, lakes and dams are expected to remain high which poses a risk for severe flooding.
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