The city of Bunia, located in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the scene of growing concern regarding the construction and operation of service stations. Economic operators importing petroleum products are urged to strictly comply with the law governing this sector to ensure safety and protection of the urban environment.
The president of the Ituri petroleum product importers, Daniel Mugisa, stresses the crucial importance of conducting environmental and social impact studies before undertaking the construction of any new service station. This approach aims to ensure compliance with urban planning standards in order to avoid the anarchic proliferation of these infrastructures and the potential risks they represent for the population.
The current situation, characterized by overlapping service stations along main roads, is a legitimate cause for concern. The coexistence of these facilities in the immediate vicinity of residential areas creates situations of permanent danger due to the flammable nature of the petroleum products stored. It is imperative to review the layout of these spaces to ensure the safety of residents and preserve the environmental balance of the city.
With this in mind, Daniel Mugisa calls for the strict application of the directives issued by the provincial authorities, in particular the military governor of Ituri, Lieutenant General Johnny Luboya N’kashama. Operators in the sector must comply with the deadlines set for the sanitation of this commercial activity and respect the standards established by the legislation in force. Collaboration between importers of petroleum products and specialized state services is essential to effectively implement these regulatory measures.
As a major player in the sector, Daniel Mugisa recognizes the shortcomings observed among some members of the organization in terms of compliance with environmental requirements. He calls for collective awareness and increased commitment from operators to contribute to the construction of a safer and more environmentally friendly city. The positive example set by certified service stations in Bunia and the region shows that it is possible to combine economic activity with social and environmental responsibility.
The current situation of gas stations in Bunia highlights the need for stronger regulation and close collaboration between local authorities and private stakeholders in the oil sector. The application of environmental and urban planning standards is essential to guarantee the quality of life of residents and the preservation of natural resources. It is up to everyone to contribute to building a sustainable and secure urban environment for future generations.