ISLAMABAD: The federal government is set to amend the Explosives Rules, 2010, in a move aimed at strengthening oversight of the manufacturing, transportation, storage, import, export, sale and use of explosives, petroleum products and hazardous chemicals.
Sources told Business Recorder that the Petroleum Division briefed the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases (CCLC) that the Department of Explosives (DoE), an attached department under the administrative control of the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division), is responsible for ensuring public safety across all stages of handling explosives and related hazardous materials.
The Petroleum Division informed the committee that the Explosives Rules, 2010 had remained unchanged for many years despite significant technological advancements and the emergence of new safety and security challenges. It emphasized the need to update the regulatory framework in line with international best practices to improve safety standards and address evolving risks.
The proposed revisions aim to strengthen regulations governing the manufacture, storage, transportation, sale, and use of explosives. Officials believe the updated rules will help prevent accidents, curb pilferage, and enhance protection for human life, property, and the environment.
The committee was further informed that the draft Explosives Rules, 2025 had been widely circulated among stakeholders, including relevant ministries, provincial governments, explosives manufacturers, and representatives of sellers. The draft was also uploaded on the Department of Explosives’ website, while public notices were published in national newspapers inviting feedback within 15 days. All comments and suggestions received were thoroughly reviewed and incorporated into the revised draft.
According to the Petroleum Division, the draft rules, along with a comparative statement, were submitted to the Law and Justice Division for vetting. The Law and Justice Division cleared the draft on April 1, 2026, and all suggested changes were incorporated into the final version.
During the meeting, the CCLC sought confirmation regarding stakeholder consultations. The Petroleum Division assured the committee that extensive consultations had been carried out and that stakeholders had broadly supported the proposed amendments. It was also noted that regulatory frameworks of regional countries were reviewed while finalizing the draft.
Following detailed deliberations, the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases approved the proposed amendments to the Explosives Rules, 2010, paving the way for their formal notification.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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