A government-appointed commission investigating the deadly gas station explosion in Aden's Mansoura district has uncovered alarming details, revealing a staggering 77 illegal gas stations operating in the city, out of a total of 122. The commission's report, submitted to Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak on Thursday, September 5, 2024, sheds light on the incident's causes, the extent of the damage, and outlines crucial recommendations for future safety measures.

The report states that the exploded gas station was operating without a license from the Yemeni Gas Company and local authorities, and lacked basic safety standards. The commission conducted thorough investigations, including site visits, reviewing reports from security agencies, the Aden Police, Civil Defense, the General Directorate of Criminal Evidence, the Yemeni Gas Company, and local authorities.

The report highlights the need to expedite investigations into the explosion and locate the owner of the station, Mohsen Abdullah al-Hadi, who remains at large. It also recommends establishing committees to reassess and rectify the status of gas stations in Aden and liberated governorates, identifying illegal stations and enforcing legal action.

The commission further recommends halting the issuance and renewal of gas station licenses until the committees complete their assessment and establish a unified guide and mechanism for regulating licensing procedures.

The report emphasizes the need for improved coordination between the Yemeni Gas Company and local authorities to regulate gas station operations, ensure consistent gas supply, and establish a mechanism for regulating gas sales and distribution.

Prime Minister bin Mubarak has pledged to implement the commission's recommendations, transforming them into binding decisions at both central and local levels. He has instructed the commission to oversee the implementation of these decisions and take decisive action to eliminate violations and ensure safety standards are prioritized to protect citizens.

The incident prompted Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak to visit the site on Friday evening and personally assess the damage. Following his visit, he issued a decree on Saturday, August 31, establishing a commission to investigate the explosion and determine its cause.

Local sources reported to "Barran Press", that the fire erupted at the gas station, leading to a powerful explosion that could be heard throughout the city. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and authorities are currently investigating the incident.

Social media users shared videos capturing the moment of the explosion and the ensuing fire. Emergency vehicles rushed to the scene to provide medical assistance to the injured.

The explosion underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and stricter regulations within the gas industry to prevent similar tragedies in the future.