National

Titas suspends 8 officials over blast in N’ganj mosque

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid on Monday said 8 officers and employees of Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Limited were temporarily dismissed, reports BSS.

“All illegal gas lines would have to be removed within the next two months,” he said while discussing the activities of gas distribution companies.

The suspend officials were Manager Md Sirajul Islam, Deputy Manager Mahmudur Rahman Rabbi, Assistant Engineer S.M. Hasan Shahriar, Assistant Engineer Manik Miah, Senior Supervisor Md Monibur Rahman Chowdhury, Senior developer Md. Ayub Ali, Assistant Md Hanif Miah and Engineer Md Ismail Pradhan.

“Electricity-gas connection cannot be provided outside the planned areas. Connections would be disconnected if clients do not connect power lines according to the occupancy certificate,” Nasrul said.

He said the image of politicians and the government are being tarnished due to corruption and misconduct of officials.

“Lists are being prepared of officials from different departments involved in illegal activities. If you (authorities concerned) receive any allegation against an officer, suspend the official first and then investigate the allegations,” he said.

“If there is any building or establishment on transmission line, it should be removed quickly. Set a timeline for collecting outstanding gas bills,” Nasrul said.

He directed officials to update the list of defaulters and send it to the ministry.

The state minister further said that EVC meters and pre-paid meters should be installed for all customers.

He expressed deep shock at the tragic incident in Narayanganj.

The virtual function was attended by energy secretary Md Anisur Rahman, ABM Abdul Fattah, Chairman of Petrobangla and Managing Directors of Distribution.