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Hisham Al-Jundi
Doha
The Central Municipal Council (CMC) members have called for speeding up work to reopen private petrol pumps which have been closed for many years now.
Several private petrol stations in and around Doha had been shut by authorities for flouting safety rules. They have been asked to renovate them to meet the safety guidelines set by Qatar Fuel (Woqod).
CMC member Hamad bin Khaled al Kubaisi said at least two petrol stations in his area had been shut for more than eight years now, causing inconvenience to the residents of the area.
"We demand a timeframe for the reopening of these petrol stations by their owners, otherwise their licences should be withdrawn," Kubaisi said.
Other members criticised the"long time' being taken to renovate private petrol stations by their owners.
They said some petrol stations, including the closed ones, have now become marketplaces rather than what they were licensed for.
Mohammed bin Thafer al Hajri, member from Al Shahaniya, said some private petrol stations have actually changed their business by delaying the reopening.
The places are now being used for other activities such as shops and restaurants.
"More shops are being opened at petrol stations causing congestion and making it harder for those who wish to refuel," Hajri said.
He demanded more supervision on petrol stations which are hosting companies and car agencies thereby causing inconvenience to motorists.
According to Hajri, some private petrol station owners were delaying reopening as they find it profitable to host more stores and restaurants in their under-renovation petrol stations. Installation of the required safety features at the petrol station may cost millions of riyals, he said.
Fatima al Kuwari suggested creation of separate entrances for petrol station pumps and for markets and services areas.
She clarified that services at the petrol station may also be a risk as restaurants are using cooking stoves, despite food being affected by the atmosphere at the station.
On the other hand, several CMC members expressed their concern over the commercial activities at some petrol stations.
The lack of parking lots at the petrol station is also posing a serious challenge to those who go for refuelling and shopping. Demands of limiting the number of restaurants and markets were also raised at the CMC as a solution for congestions at petrol stations.
Kubaisi's recommendation was referred to the Public Services and Utilities Committee of the Central Municipal Council for further discussion.
