Gasification Regulations to Be Tightened in Georgia

Gas providing regulations will be tightened in Georgia. The information was released by the Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Natia Turnava.

Turnava said that gasification is one of the priority directions, but it must be done in compliance with the gas safety rules.

Turnava expressed concern regarding the recent fatal cases – the gas explosion in Didi Dighomi district, which left 4 dead and the death of two people in Varketili due to CO intoxication.

"We express deep sorrow over the deaths of the gas explosion and gas poisoning and I hope that the investigation carried out by the Ministry of Internal Affairs will determine the causes of tragedies,” she said.

“At the same time, we plan to increase the safety of gas consumption and to establish the best international experience in this regard," she added.

Deputy Minister said the requirements towards gas companies in the direction of construction and installation works will be further tightened, as well as the gasification in the individual residential areas and the equipment installation procedures will be tightened.

According to Turnava, an information campaign about the safe consumption of gas will be launched in order to raise awareness of the population.

Two men died of CO intoxication on January 21. As the neighbors say, the cause might have been an improperly installed gas heater.

As for the deadly gas explosion, it took place on January 16 and killed 4 people, while 8 others received severe injuries.

Investigations into the both cases are underway.