Rusting pipelines should be replaced : Harsha Kumar
Former Amalapuram MP Harsha Kumar said that officials did not change the pipelines even the issue of their rusting was taken up with the authorities several times.
Speaking at Nagaram, where 18 persons died in a gas pipeline leakage and a blast, he said that GAIL should take the responsibility for the tragedy. “At least after this tragic incident, GAIL should replace those pipelines which gathered rust,” said Harsha Kumar.
He said that the union government did not respond to the three letters that he sent requesting replacement of the pipelines.
“As per the Gas Pipelines Act, 1960, a person will be imprisoned for six years if he or she merely touches the pipelines. I requested the government to change this rule. I also requested the government to change the laws so taht compensation could be paid to the victims,” said the former MP.
“If enough precautions are not taken by the authorities, the people may boycott the activities of GAIL and ONGC in Konaseema,” warned Harsha Kumar.
- Sakshipost