Al-Watan

The National Gas and Industrialization Company (GASCO) was incorporated in 1963 following a merger of the National Gas Company in Dammam and its two branches in Riyadh and Jeddah with the Saudi Manufacturing and Gas Company in Riyadh and its branches in Dammam. The government merged other gas companies with GASCO because they provided low-level services.

Unfortunately, GASCO has not had any remarkable developments or progress in terms of products and services despite its increased profits. In the first half of 2017, profits reached SR103 million.

The orange gas cylinders are time bombs in every home. These cylinders are dangerous and pose a major threat to public safety. Many people have lost their lives and many properties have been completely destroyed because of exploding gas cylinders. Some people prefer to buy electric stoves and ovens but these are prone to overloading and also consume a higher rate of electricity.

Why has GASCO not thought about building gas networks across the country? Each home would get gas through safe and isolated underground gas reservoirs just like the gas networks in advanced countries. Such networks would greatly benefit us. For example, more economic returns would be generated and there would be a reduced cost of importing, shipping and maintenance. GASCO staff would also enjoy a healthy and safe environment, as currently workers at GASCO points of distribution work in dangerous conditions without adhering to safety standards.

Neighborhood residents who live near GASCO cylinder distribution points would feel safer and more secure if a gas pipe network was implemented. Moreover, a large number of job opportunities would be created in the gas sector, which would help reduce the unemployment rate. GASCO should build this gas network now.