Yemeni Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak has vowed to take "firm and practical measures" to end violations and irregularities in the operation of gas stations following a deadly explosion in Aden.

During a meeting with the Director General of the Yemeni Oil and Gas Corporation, Mohammed Thabet, and the Executive Director of the Yemeni Gas Company, Mohsen bin Waheeth, in Aden on Sunday, September 1, 2024, bin Mubarak stated that these measures will be based on the results of an investigation. He pledged to hold those responsible accountable without leniency and prevent any overlap of authority between central authorities and local administrations.

"The gas station explosion in Mansoura district is a wake-up call to rectify existing imbalances, end the chaos that prevailed in this sector during the previous period, hold those negligent in the lives and souls of citizens accountable, and ensure that no similar incidents occur again," bin Mubarak said. He emphasized the need for each entity to assume its responsibilities.

The Prime Minister vowed to hold all officials responsible for negligence accountable based on the findings of the investigation into the explosion. He also committed to implementing strict controls and procedures to end violations and irregularities in the operation of gas stations in Aden and other provinces, prioritizing safety standards to protect citizens and the community from any risks.

Bin Mubarak directed the Oil and Gas Corporation and the Gas Company to stop supplying gas to violating stations, calling it an unacceptable and unpardonable flaw.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister listened to a report from the heads of the Oil and Gas Corporation and the Gas Company on the current state of gas station operations, existing irregularities, and areas requiring cooperation from relevant central and local authorities to eliminate existing chaos and implement professional safety standards.

According to the official news agency, officials from the Corporation and the Company confirmed that the gas supply situation is stable and ample quantities are available. They assured that attempts by those affected by the rectification of irregularities to create an artificial crisis and incite public anxiety will not succeed.

On Friday, August 30, 2024, three people were killed and seven others injured in an explosion at a domestic gas station in Aden. Local sources reported that the fire erupted at a gas station on the 90th Street in Mansoura district, leading to a massive explosion heard in various parts of the city.

The sources confirmed that the explosion, which occurred amidst densely populated buildings and a busy street, resulted in the deaths of three people and injuries to seven others. The explosion, which caused a massive fire that spread to a nearby gas tanker and commercial shops, remains under investigation.

Social media users shared videos captured by Bran Press showing the moment of the explosion and the fire at the gas station. Ambulances rushed to the scene to provide medical care to the injured.

Yemeni cities have witnessed a chaotic situation in the establishment of domestic gas stations, with serious violations in granting permits for these stations, along with a lack of oversight of their construction standards and operating procedures.