Most gas stations fail safety standards

JAKARTA: Thirty gas stations across Central Jakarta have failed to meet environmental standards, as they have not completed the required environmental impact assessment, the Environmental Management Board (BPLHD) has reported.

Abdul Malik, head of the Central Jakarta chapter of the BPLHD, said that only two *both owned by Shell* of 32 gas stations across in the regions met the standards.

"We found that 30 gas stations have disobeyed the environmental law. Twenty six gas stations are owned by PT Pertamina, while the other two belong to Shell and Petronas respectively," Abdul said recently.

He said every gas station owner should consider undergoing the environmental assessment to assure the safety of their gas station and to check the quality of its ground water.

"The environmental analysis is a must. Those who disobey the law will face sanctions. The city administration can take strict action including closing the gas station or even withdrawing their operating permits," he said, as quoted by beritajakarta.com. He said that the environmental analysis would lower the environmental impacts of the businesses.

Gazi Amin said that every gas station owner should prioritize safety and the environment in running their business. "It's a matter of people's lives," Gazi said.

Many environmental experts believe that an environmental impact assessment is merely an administrative formality, as it they are not enforced or applied properly. - JP