The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has directed the immediate closure of all fuel stations, transport operations, and related facilities affected by the ongoing heavy rains and flooding, in a move aimed at preventing fuel contamination, fire risks, and environmental hazards.
The directive applies to Oil Marketing Companies, fuel station operators, dealers, and fuel transporters whose facilities have been inundated by floodwaters.
According to the regulator, operations must stop immediately at any station where floodwater has entered forecourts, underground tank areas, manholes, fill points, or vent systems.
“Immediately cease all fuel dispensing, loading, and offloading activities where floodwater has inundated the forecourt, tank area, or entered tank manholes, fill points, or vent pipes,” the NPA stated in its emergency safety notice.
100-Meter Safety Buffer Enforced
As part of emergency safety measures, the NPA has instructed operators to establish a minimum 100-meter exclusion zone around affected fuel stations.
Within this perimeter, all activity that could trigger ignition is strictly prohibited. This includes smoking, open flames, welding, and the use of any spark-producing equipment.
Station managers have also been directed to isolate electrical power to dispensers, pumps, and lighting systems where it can be safely done, followed by full evacuation of staff and customers.
Strict Conditions for Reopening
The NPA stressed that no affected station will be allowed to resume operations until floodwaters fully recede and safety clearance is granted.
Before reopening, stations must undergo joint inspections by the NPA and the Ghana National Fire Service. The assessment will confirm the integrity of underground tanks, pipelines, and dispensing systems.
Any fuel or materials contaminated by floodwater must be safely removed and disposed of in line with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.
The authority warned that violations will attract strict punishment, including suspension of operations, heavy fines, and possible criminal prosecution.
“The sale or distribution of contaminated petroleum products constitutes a violation of applicable petroleum regulations and will attract severe sanctions,” the statement noted.
Public Safety Warning
The NPA is also urging the public to stay away from flooded fuel stations, warning of possible exposure to hazardous substances.
Residents and motorists have been advised to avoid contact with floodwaters around such facilities, as they may contain fuel or other harmful contaminants.
The public is further encouraged to report any fuel leaks, strong petroleum odors, or visible oil films on floodwaters to the Ghana National Fire Service or NPA offices.
Compliance teams have been deployed nationwide to ensure strict enforcement of the directive as flooding continues in parts of the country.
