Relocation of CNG stations sites: Ogra resists allowing auditors access to records

Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) Chairman Tauqeer Sadiq is reportedly resisting allowing commercial auditors access to records of controversial relocation of CNG stations sites, Business Recorder has reliably learnt. Informed sources told BR that Ogra chairman and Member Finance Mir Kamal Mari are accused of involvement in granting approval illegally for the relocation of 15 CNG stations since April 15, 2010 in the absence of any policy.
As many as 42 cases of relocation of CNG stations sites are under process. Outgoing Cabinet Secretary Chaudhry Abdul Rauf had sent a note expressing severe reservations to Chairman Ogra for defying the orders of Cabinet Division on the restoration of the powers of Member Gas, as well as on approving relocations of CNG stations sites without a firm policy in this regard.
The Prime Minister's Secretariat in a letter to Cabinet Division stated that, "From the media report it appears that Chairman Ogra has not been giving desired weight to the orders of the Cabinet Division which is undesirable." The letter further adds that it is desired that the Cabinet Division must ensure implementation of its orders given to Ogra under the Rules of Business in the interest of maintaining discipline amongst the subsidiary organs which should be a top priority. "Also, the policy for relocation of CNG stations may be finalised expeditiously," the letter added.
In a high level meeting held on October 13, 2010 in the Cabinet Division, adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs observed with concern that Ogra chairman had exceeded its powers by limiting the powers of Member (Gas) and assigning some of these powers to Member (Finance). It was clarified that appointment of members OGRA falls within the purview of the federal Government, hence neither Chairman nor Ogra as an authority is empowered to curtail and withdraw powers of any member.
The issue of installation of CNG stations sites in densely populated areas was also reviewed. The adviser to the Prime Minister directed that a policy be formulated for re-location of CNG stations sites. He also directed Chairman Ogra to prepare a comprehensive proposal for the re-siting of CNG stations and forward it to Ministry of Petroleum for taking appropriate action. "But no Cabinet Division decision to this effect has been implemented by Ogra Chairman so far," sources maintained.