The operations of 464 fueling stations across Uzbekistan have been temporarily suspended, according to a Cabinet of Ministers decree that came into effect today, June 22.
The document states that a comprehensive audit was conducted across the country’s 6,196 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), compressed natural gas (CNG), and petroleum fueling stations, as well as residential gas cylinder refilling stations and distribution points. The nationwide inspection aimed to prevent accidents, ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, and increase accountability among state authorities responsible for licensing, permits, and regulatory compliance. The audit focused heavily on fire prevention, public safety, and occupational health standards.
The inspection uncovered a total of 46,737 regulatory violations and deficiencies, categorized as follows:
- 2,218 violations related to construction and structural codes;
- 7,949 violations related to fire safety protocols;
- 25,341 violations related to industrial and technical safety standards;
- 3,354 violations related to technical regulations and compliance;
- 7,875 violations related to operational and technological processes.
During the inspections, 7,166 deficiencies were resolved on-site, and the operations of 464 fueling stations were temporarily suspended.
Starting September 1, 2026, a phased restriction will take effect through January 1, 2030, banning the use of pressurized equipment that has exceeded its designated service life or lacks a verifiable manufacturing date. This mandate applies to all types of fueling and gas-refilling facilities, including private refueling sites used for internal company needs.
By September 2026, authorities will compile a comprehensive registry of all fueling stations and gas-refilling facilities failing to meet public health, environmental protection, industrial, fire, or urban planning codes—including mandated safety buffer zones. Following the registry's creation, structured plans will be rolled out to gradually relocate these high-risk facilities to safer, designated areas.
Fueling Station Accidents
This safety crackdown follows a string of recent fatal incidents across the country. On June 8, 2026, a powerful explosion at a domestic gas cylinder refilling station in the Karshi district claimed six lives. In the summer of 2025, a similar blast at a liquefied petroleum gas distribution point in the Kukdala district of the Qashqadaryo region also killed six people. Furthermore, in December 2024, a horrific fire caused by an explosion at a fueling station in the city of Fergana resulted in the tragic deaths of a woman, her two young children aged 4 and 2, and her 8-year-old nephew.
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