Petroleum Station at Close Proximities of Residential Area

in Kathmandu: Disaster Risk and Preparedness

A Study of Petroleum Station of Tokha Municipality, Samakhusi/Gangabu Area,

Kathmandu

The Thesis Submitted

To the Institute of Crisis Management Studies (ICMS), Samarpan Academy

In Partial Fulfillment of the Academic Requirement for the Degree of

Masters of Arts

In

Crisis Management

SUBMITTED BY

SUJAN KC

Exam: 000611

TU Regd No: 7-3-39-1350-2012

Samarpan Academy

Affiliated to Tribhuvan University (TU)

Kathmandu, Nepal

July, 2022
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this thesis entitled "PETROLEUM STATION AT CLOSE

PROXMITES OF RESIDENTIAL AREA IN KATHMANDU:DISASTER RISK

AND PREPARENESS:A STUDY OF PETROLEUM STATION OF TOKHA

MUNCIPALITY, SAMAKHUSI/GANAGBU AREA, KATHMANDU " is my own

work and that it Contains no materials previously published. I have not used its materials

for the award of any kind and any other degree. Where other authors’ sources of

information have been used, they have been acknowledged.

Sujan Kc

July, 2022

vi
 LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION

This thesis entitled "PETROLEUM STATION AT CLOSE PROXMITES OF

RESIDENTIAL AREA IN KATHMANDU:DISASTER RISK AND

PREPARENESS:A STUDY OF PETROLEUM STATION OF TOKHA

MUNCIPALITY, SAMAKHUSI/GANAGBU AREA, KATHMANDU "has been

prepared by Mr. Sujan K. C under my supervision and guidance. He has conducted

research in October, 2021.

Therefore, I recommend this thesis to the evaluation committee for its final approval.

Mr.……………………………….

(Supervisor)

Date………………………

ii
 LETTER OF APPROVAL

The evaluation committee has approved this thesis entitled "Petroleum Station at

Close Proximities of Residential Area in Kathmandu: Disaster Risk and

Preparedness: A Study of Petroleum Station of Tokha Municipality,

Samakhusi/GangabuArea, Kathmandu"submitted by Mr. Sujan KC in partial

fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF ARTS in CRISIS

MANAGEMENT.

Evaluation Committee

Mr. Dr Ram Thapaliya …………………………...

(Head of the Department)

Uttam Raj Subedi …………………………...

AIG (Nepal police)

(External Examiner)

Dr Dipendra Raman Singh …………………………...

DG (DoHS)

(Supervisor)

Date: 2022-7-20

vi
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Firstly, I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr Dipendra Raman Singh for his

endless and unfaltering support for my work on this thesis over the years in which I

have been studying from a far. Despite my not being resident at the university during

this project, he has always managed to provide insightful, focused and pivotal advice

and guidance throughout by phone and e-mail. I am particularly grateful to him for his

encouragement and help during the last several months as I put in the final ‘surge’ to

get the thesis ready for submission and examination. I would also like to make special

mention of my teacher's Retired ltd General Balananda Sharma and Dr Ram

Thapaliya sir for guidance and motivation.

Sujan kc

July, 2022

vi
 ABSTRACT

The study examined disaster preparedness and risk behavior of petrol station close to

residential in Samakhusi area. The study objectives were to asses' placement of petrol

station found in residential area, establishing policy, procedures, criteria of petrol

station land use planning and preparedness, establishing administrative strategies put

in place by worker, stakeholder and resident to enhance disaster preparedness and

examining ways through which petrol station facilities have been modified to cope

with disasters mostly with fire. It also established that crucial disaster prevention and

safety materials were not available as per need in most petrol stations. The study

adopted a descriptive survey design. Data were collected using questionnaires and an

observation schedule. Quantitative data from closed-ended items were analyzed using

frequency counts. Frequencies and percentages obtained were presented in tables and

graphs which were then internalized and described.

The findings of the study revealed that petrol station in Samakhusi are less uptake

location guideline with inadequate distance most of which are close of residential

area; NOC only has developed specific guidelines on the sitting of stations. These

stipulate that there should be a generic safe distance of 100 meters between petrol

stations and residential properties, schools, or hospitals and a three-kilometer distance

between petrol stations. The application of these standards shows that the sitting of

petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu does not meet these good practice guidelines.

Disaster preparedness guidelines such as building guideline were not available or

consider as optional in a large number of petrol station and residential house.

Keywords: Petrol station, Disaster, preparedness,safety

vi
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

DECLERATION................................................................................................................I
LETTER OF RECOMENDATION................................................................................II
LETTER OF APPROVAL.............................................................................................III
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT..............................................................................................IV
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS.............................................................................................VII
LIST OF TABLES.......................................................................................................VIII
LIST OF FIGURES........................................................................................................IX
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS...................................................................X

CHAPTER - I.....................................................................................................................1
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................1
1.1. Background of the study....................................................................................1
1.1.1 Defining petrol stations..................................................................................2
1.1.2 Concept of Disaster risk and its analysis in the context of petrol stations
2
1.2. Statement of Problem........................................................................................4
1.3. Research Question.............................................................................................5
1.4. Objectives of the Study.....................................................................................5
1.5. Significance of the Study..................................................................................6
CHAPTER-II.....................................................................................................................7
LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................7
2.1 Historical Overview...............................................................................................7
2.2Potential possible disaster risks to residential area due to their close proximity
to petrol station.............................................................................................................9
2.4. International best practices on the location of petrol station...............................12
2.5 Nepal Oil Corporation Limited............................................................................13
2.6 Criteria for location of petrol filling stations in Nepal.........................................15
CHAPTER - III................................................................................................................18
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...................................................................................18
3.1 Research Design...................................................................................................18
3.2 Selection of the Study Area.............................................................................18
3.3. Nature and Source of Data..............................................................................19

vi
 3.4. Universe and Sampling...................................................................................20

CHAPTER – IV...............................................................................................................21
FINDIING OF THE STUDY AREA.............................................................................21
4.1Location and distribution of petrol station Samakhusi/Gongabhu area of
Kathmandu.................................................................................................................21
4.2Conformity of petrol station with development good practices in Samakhusi.....22
4.3. Land-Use at petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu........................................24
4.4. Land-Use development procedure in Samakhusi/Gangabu............................25
4.5 Policy of petrol station buildings.....................................................................26
CHAPTER - V..................................................................................................................30
DATA ANALISIS AND PRESENTATION.................................................................30
5.1. Emergency response preparedness plan..........................................................30
5.1.1 Availability of disaster management plan...................................................31
5.1.2. Capability of the Petrol stations to respond to the crisis.............................31
5.2. Institutional management................................................................................32
5.3. The Municipality's standard operating procedures..........................................35
5.4 Disaster safety at the petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu..........................37
5.5 Disaster risk behaviors....................................................................................39
5.5.1 Inspection on disaster incident of petrol stations............................................39
5.5.2. Sensitization of worker on dangers of fire...................................................40
5.5.3 Possible disaster implication to an individual.............................................40
5.6. Disaster prevention equipment at petrol stations............................................41
5.6.1. State of disaster safety ensure measures......................................................42
5.6.2. Availability of Specific safety controls/measures that petrol station has
done to ensure safety in and around petrol station.................................................43
5.6.3 State of disaster risk prevention practices by worker..................................43
5.6.4 Existence of escape and evacuation planning in petrol station....................44
5.6.5 Existence of disaster Response team...........................................................44
5.6.6 Availability of staff assembly point for an emergency................................45
5.6.7 Available equipment to fight fires...............................................................46
CHAPTER VI:.................................................................................................................47
SUMMARY & CONCLUSION....................................................................................47
6.1. Summary of findings.......................................................................................47
6.2 Conclusion.......................................................................................................51
6.3. Recommendations...........................................................................................52
REFERENCES................................................................................................................54
APPENDIX A...................................................................................................................57
APPENDIX B...................................................................................................................63
vi
 LIST OF TABLES

Table 4.0 socio demographic of the study participant................................................21

Table 4.1: distance from petrol station to police station (dmtc) facilities....................22
Table 4.2: adequacy of distance between petrol stations.............................................23
Table 4.2.1: adequacy of distance between petrol station and houses.........................23
Table 4.3: land-use in and around petrol stations.........................................................24
Table 4.4: role of urban planner for petrol station development procedure.................26
Table 4.5: availability of building guidelines...............................................................27
Table 5.1: availability of disaster management plan....................................................31
Table 5.1.2: petrol stations capability to respond to the crisis.....................................31
Table 5.2: awareness level of people on increase petrol station..................................34
Table 5.2.1: awareness level of people on possible potential danger in petrol station 34
Table 5.2.2: awareness level of people on health hazard.............................................35
Table 5.5.1: state of fire or an explosion incident on petrol stations...........................40
Table 5.5.2: level of danger for residential area being close to petrol station.............40
Table5.5.3: frequency level of disaster implication on an individual..........................41
Table 5.6.1: disaster prevention procedure available in petrol station.........................42
Table 5.6.2: availability of safety measures in and around petrol station....................43
Table 5.6.3: state of petrol station for disaster risk prevention practices by worker. . .43
Table 5.6.4: existence of escape planning....................................................................44
Table 5.6.5: existence of disaster response team in petrol station...............................45
Table 5.6.6: availability of staff assembly point for an emergency.............................45

vi
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

Figure 3.1 : study area of petroleum station, samakhusi area,kathmandu.........................19

Figure 4.1: institutional challenges of petrol station.......................................................32
Figure 4.2 : highest responsible level to coordinate disaster in petrol station...................33
Figure 4.3 : municipality's standard operating procedure..................................................36
Figure 4.4 : state of safety preparedness on petrol station.................................................38

vi
 ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

NOC Nepal Oil Coop ration

United Nations International Strategy for Disaster
UNISDR
Reduction
ARA Australia Retail Association
MEOC Metropolitan Emergency Operating Centre
CIJ Centre for Investigative Journalism
PVR Petroleum Vendors Regulations
DRR Disaster Risk Reduction
LDC Lower Developed Countries
HFA Hyogo Framework of Action
MOF Ministry Of Finance
MPITD Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport development
NDMF National Disaster Management framework
DM TC Disaster Management Training Center
CEO Chief Executive Officer
SOP Standard Operating Procedures
EIA Environment Impact Assessment
PDEADP Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Planning
RSLUP Risk Sensitive Land Use Plan
DM, FP Disaster Management
MoLRM Ministry of Land Reform Management
DMA Disaster Management Act
BL Building by Law

vi
 CHAPTER - I

INTRODUCTION
1.1. Background of the study

Society is increasingly dependent on complicated man-made systems and new

technologies (Ayyub, 2003). The world will always have technocrats who try to

improve the human condition by solving all environmental, medical, military and

economic problems with bigger and better technology (Cutter, 1993). The term

‘technology’ has been defined in technological research in various ways (Thierer,

2014). However, for the purpose of this research, the term is defined as “an effort to

organize the world for problem-solving so that goods and services can be invented,

developed, produced and used” (Hughes, 2004:6). The underlying assumption in this

definition is that technology, and technological solutions will only improve the human

condition and not degrade it (Cutter, 1993).However, this is not always the case. The

18th century industrial revolution, which marks a change of human economic

conditions from an agrarian society to an industrial one, is such a historical example

(Kitson & Michie, 2014). Firstly, due to the negative impacts of the industrial

development on the environment, characterized by thick smog and smoke which hung

over cities in the United Kingdom (UK). Secondly, by the problems associated with

the provision of services such as water supply, sanitation, street-cleaning and open

spaces, which could not keep pace with expanding urban populations, especially after

1830, resulting in epidemics of cholera, typhoid and other diseases (Elliott, 2010).

Brooks (1973) argues that while the main purpose of technology is development and

better living, the risk of death and destruction associated with technology is rising.In

an increasingly technological society, the notion of progress persists (Kate &

Kasperson, 1983). However, technology can also constitute a hazard.

1
1.1.1 Defining petrol stations

Petrol stations are critical facilities that often contain large quantities of hazardous

materials (ARA, 2009). Petrol station could refer to any petroleum facility, service

station, public garage, highway filling station and/or fuel depot that sell fuel and

lubricants for motor vehicles (Genovese and Spencer, 2004). Petrol station refers to as

any land, building or equipment used for the sale or dispensing of petrol or oil for

motor vehicles (Mohammed, 2014). According to Ayodele (2011), nearly all petrol

stations sell petrol or diesel. Some petrol stations carry specialty fuels such as

liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas, hydrogen, biodiesel, kerosene, or butane,

while others add shops or convenience stores to their primary business (Ayodele,

2011). The potentially hazardous nature of these facilities necessitates special care in

their design and location in order to avoid fires or explosions (Ahmed, 2011). Even

though these facilities may have different names depending on the part of the world,

the purpose remains the same (Mshelia, 2015): a structure or building where

petroleum products are sold to motorists or other users.

1.1.2 Concept of Disaster risk and its analysis in the context of petrol stations

Disaster risk refers to “the potential loss of life, injury, or destroyed or damaged assets

which could occur to a system, society or a community in a specific period of time,

determined probabilistically as a function of hazard, exposure, vulnerability and

capacity” (UNISDR, 2017). It is the likely result of the hazard occurring and resulting

in damage or loss to exposed elements, be it infrastructure, social assets or human

beings (UNISDR; Smith, 2004).Disasters have plagued the world for many decades

and they continue to increase in frequency; during the past 20 years alone, disasters

have killed at least 3 million people worldwide and have affected 800 million more

(Sundnes and Bimbaum, 2003). In the Nepal, the earthquake of April 25, 2015
2
severely damaged national assets, disrupted physical and social systems, and left a

deep scar amongst the many who endured severe consequences and forced the nation

to reevaluate its state of readiness (Mdpi, 2019). Society is increasingly dependent on

complicated man-made systems and new technologies (Ayyub, 2003). Brooks (1973)

argues that while the main purpose of technology is development and better living, the

risk of death and destruction associated with technology is rising.

A hazard is defined as “a dangerous event that may cause loss of life, injury or other

health impacts, as well as damage and loss to property, infrastructure, livelihoods and

services, social and economic disruption and, or environmental damage” (UNISDR,

2009:17).Technological hazards refer to a “dangerous event” (UNISDR, 2009:17) that

emanates from “technology invented, developed, produced and used” (Hughes,

2004:6). This may include industrial pollution, nuclear radiation, toxic waste, dam

failures, transport accidents, factory explosions, fires and chemical spills in petrol

stations, that can result in loss of life, injury, illness or other health impacts, property

damage, loss of livelihoods and services, social and economic disruption and/or

environmental damage (UNISDR ,2009).In this context, petrol stations present health

and safety concerns, especially the potential for fires owing to the toxicity and

flammability of the liquid and gaseous products (ARA, 2009).Petrol stations are,

therefore, one type of technological invention that poses a threat to individuals,

society and surrounding environments (Cutter, 1993). It is for this reason that this

research analyses the hazard posed by petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu, the

extent to which this is incorporated into land-use planning, and the consequence for

urban public safety.

3
1.2. Statement of Problem

The hazards associated to petrol station do bring impacts to people, environment,

asset and reputation. Nevertheless, the consequences of disaster resulted from the

incident are very huge .The rapid growth of urbanization has created greater demand

for vehicles, which results in more fuel consumption. Thus, petrol station has become

more important nowadays, but mean while it is a hazardous facility which requires

special attention starting from the site selection up until the operational and

maintenance phases as to protect relevant stakeholders involve especially nearby

community vicinity to the petrol station. Areas around petrol pumps are risky zones in

themselves. As they are operating in densely populated areas of the Kathmandu

Valley without ability to minimize risks, these filling stations have become no

different from landmine (MEOC Kishore, 2019).

The traffic-heavy area of Balaju- Chakrapath has one petrol station every one

kilometer stretch (CIJ, 2019). Due to the location of one in a densely populated area

and in close proximity with a party palace where there are regular public gatherings,

this petrol station becomes unsafe. The state owned supplier has formulated a safety

directive for fuel stations so as to tackle potential disasters. However, stations

operating in the Kathmandu Valley do not follow it. Even the measures outlined in the

directive are not sufficient. In locating petrol stations, it is important to take some

precautionary measures like locating them at a required distance from buildings;

places of public assembly such as markets, hospitals and schools and areas of high

traffic congestions and residential buildings. This should be in accordance with the

guidelines provided by the Department of Petroleum Resources and Fire service

safety rules that the distance between two nearest petrol stations should be 300 meters

and between a petrol station to the nearest residential building should not be less than
4
50m to shun possible hazards (PVR, 2075). Likewise, the underground containers for

petroleum products should be well away from human settlements and there should

also be a three to five feet wall around the petrol station. Although many stations

don’t meet these standards, NOC officials shrugged this off, saying the stations are

already in existence before the criteria is set. Unfortunately, in Kathmandu, these

guidelines have not been followed. As a result, there have been proliferations of petrol

stations that are located close to residential areas. This might have constituted serious

hazards to residence in close proximity to such petrol stations.

1.3. Research Question

1. Is there a disaster management plan in these petrol stations?

2. Are there sufficient personnel and equipment to respond to crisis generally?

3. How can safety be maintained in petrol station?

4. Do you have any disaster risk prevention practices?

5. What is perception of people of the adequacy of sitting of petrol station?

1.4. Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study was to assess the placement of the petrol stations and disaster

preparedness level among petrol station attendants and assess the prevailing safety

prevention practices in petrol stations and the possible hazards associated with their

locations in Kathmandu. Specifically, the study has the following objectives:

1. To assess the placement of the petrol stations in residential area.

2. To identify disaster preparedness emergency response of petrol station.

3. To find out disaster risk prevention practices among stakeholder and workers.

5
1.5. Significance of the Study

The researcher decided to conduct his research in Samakhusi/Gangabu area of

Kathmandu to examine the safety measures among petrol stations and the possible

hazards associated with their locations in Kathmandu. In this sense, the significance

of the study will be clear from the following points.

 Helps to understand the condition of petroleum Station in Samakhusi area.

 Facilitate for further in-depth study on the same subject.

 Collect the information about the possible hazards associated with the locations

of petroleum station in Kathmandu.

 If the purpose of the study is fulfilled, it will be preliminary information to

policy makers, planners, politicians, bureaucrats.

6
 Chapter-II

LITERATURE REVIEW

In every research work of academic significance, theoretical understanding is very

necessary to provide a good basis and sharper insight into the research agenda. This

section of the study provides review of major theoretical and empirical studies

associated Petroleum Station and possible hazards. The result shown by one greatly

supports or might vary with the other since it depends on the availability of the data

and scope of the study. The reviews of theoretical and empirical works made on

different period.

2.1 Historical Overview

Technological disasters were first recorded in LDCs in late 1970s and early 1980s,

owing to proliferation of new technologies, which was facilitated by the process of

industrialization and an era of mass consumption (Silei n.d.; Krejsa, 1997). The LDCs

(lower developed countries) experienced similar problems in relation to the

management of these new technological developments, owing to their inexperience in

managing the negative externalities emerging from new technological innovations

(Smith, 2004).The year 1984 was a turning point, when three industrial accidents in

LDCs resulted in about 3500 deaths, leaving over 200000 people homeless (Smith,

2004). The incident in Bhopal, India in 1984 is singled out as the world’s deadliest

industrial accident (Smith, 2004). The other two incidents were a petroleum spillage

in Campos Basin, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and an LPG gas explosion in San Juan

Ixhuatepec, Mexico City. “These three technological disasters resulted in more deaths

in one year than all technological disasters combined since WWII” (Smith,

7
2004:233).Technological hazards are a growing threat to people and their

environment (Krejsa, 1997). This is the consequence of the globalization of

production, industrialization, and the risk of accidents connected with production,

processes, transportation and waste management (Krejsa,1997).These hazards are

often associated with the release of dangerous chemical substances, because of

accidents, or with the production of toxins when fires occur (Krejsa,1997).The most

severe technological accidents have affected thousands of people, both in developed

and developing countries (Krejsa,1997).

Nepal has also experienced technological disasters. The unsafe stations have already

resulted in massive blaze. In November 2017, for example, Alam Mechanical

Workshop inside Tripureshwar-based Jayanti Oil Store caught fire, killing an

employee and destroying property worth millions. Prior to this, half a dozen such

incidents had already taken place. In 2015, an office nearby Nepal Army petrol pump

at Bhadrakali caught fire. The traffic-heavy area of Balaju-Chakrapath has one petrol

station every one kilometer stretch (CIJ, 2019). Due to the location of one in a densely

populated area and in close proximity with a party palace where there are regular

public gatherings, this petrol station becomes unsafe. Every industry has put lots of

efforts to prevent accident. There are many of petrochemical industries have high

potential for loss and there have been cases, where loss measured in both human and

financial terms has catastrophic. It is true to say that there have been other cases

where because of effective action taken at the time, the full potential loss has been

largely avoided. Effective measure has been possible due to the existence of pre-

planned and practiced procedures for handling major emergencies utilizing the

combined resources of the industrial concern and outside services. Thus, the

requirement to study the possible disaster risk must be done parallel with the evolving
8
industry, technology and also availability of knowledge in the world. Technological

disaster have changed over time and space with the evolution, and increasing

sophistication, of technology forming components of complex urban systems

(Iossifova, 2016). The emergence of cars as the popular mode of road transport

created new hazards (Rodrigue, 2017).The introduction of the internal combustion

engine in the 1800s resulted in the large- scale mechanization of transportation

modes, especially road transport (Rodrigue ,2017). This was followed by the

proliferation of cars, buses and trucks and the establishment of vast highway networks

(Rodrigue, 2017). The increase of urban populations and growth in the number of cars

and other vehicles increased demand for fuel, and by extension petrol stations, and

expansion of the petroleum industry (Mohammed et al, 2014). Petrol stations are now

a common feature in urban centres across the world (Monney et al, 2015). However,

petrol stations are associated with hazards, and there have been many disasters at

petrol stations global.

2.2 Potential possible disaster risks to residential area due to their close

proximity to petrol station

The operation of a petrol station involves receiving and storing different types of fuel

in adequate volume which are stored in underground storage tanks and then

dispensing the fuel according to the request of consumers. Since fuel is a complex

mixture of flammable, toxic and carcinogenic chemical, various hazards at the petrol

station could be found which may cause injury or even death (Rodricks, 1992). Most

of the case, disaster may result in multiple deaths. Songotola et al (2015) considers

the following as some factors responsible for the effect, associated with citing

petroleum filling stations in close proximity to any residential area:

9
1. Fire outbreak: The storage of petrol may lead to fuel spillage which can cause

fire outbreak if not properly handled. During the inferno, a lot of lives could be

lost and valuable properties destroyed. The most concern major hazards at the

petrol station are fire and explosion. Multiple factors could cause these incidents,

one of which was failure of pipe work and tank. Failure of pipe work and tank

could lead to various outcomes, some of which can pose a significant threat of

damage to people and properties in the immediate vicinity of the failure location.

The hazard associated area will depend on the mode of the pipe work failure,

ignition time, environmental condition at failure point and meteorological

condition. Some of the failures were time independent occurrences such as

external mechanical interference, earthquake or overpressure whereas others

were time dependent such as corrosion or ruptures (Jo & Ahn, 2002). Upon loss

of containment caused by line leak or failure, hydrocarbon fire could occur.

2. Road accident: Usually, there is considerable movement of vehicles during fuel

scarcity which could lead to accidental collision with structures, people and

other vehicles.

3. Traffic congestion: Traffic congestion is a common feature at petrol stations

situated very close to each other, near a market place or next to road intersection

and junction. Also, traffic congestion occurs during loading and unloading of

passengers and goods around the premises of petrol stations.

4. Hazardous substances: Some items of stock and chemicals used in car wash

and general cleaning in service stations can be harmful. Chronic exposure to

them through use, accidental spillage or leakage can cause respiratory problems,

dermatitis or chemical burns to both employees within the filling station

10
 premises and nearby residents. Concerns regarding the health risks from the

exposure of fuel vapors to people have increased drastically (Lynge et al., 1997).

The main cause of this was benzene and 1-3 Butadiene which could be found in

fuel. The exposure of benzene would result to numerous blood cancers including

acute myeloid leukemia and acute non lymphocytic leukemia (Jakobsson et al.,

1993).The fuel could be released in the form of liquid spills or vapor losses

where the effect is dependent on the distribution of fuel across the surrounding

area. Thus, the minimization of exposure should be conducted to eliminate or

reduce the health risks (Asante-Duah, 2002).

5. Electricity: Misuse or badly maintained electrical equipment can lead to

increased risk of electric shock and fire risks at petrol filling stations. Wet

environment resulting from commercial vacuums and car washes can also cause

malfunctioning of electrical equipment.

6. Pollution: The volatile organic compound in petroleum motor spirit pollutes the

air with attendant health effects on the inhabitants of the area and the

environment in general. Also, such hazardous chemicals tend to react with the

paint of buildings, thus damaging the aesthetics of any nearby residential

building. In areas where fuel stations are situated very close to rivers, these

vapours are potential threats to aquatic life. Fuel is considered one of the

environmental concerns’ chemicals which have the ability to contaminate the

water, air and land resulted from the petrol station’s process, design and

equipment standards. Leaks and spills of fuel are the most common cause of

contaminations. Due to this incident, the management had taken additional

precautionary measures and develops higher standards for safety and

11
 environmental matters (Terrés et 2010).

2.4. International best practices on the location of petrol station

Countries follow different risk assessment methodologies including a consequence-

based approach, a risk-based approach and use of generic distances (Christou, 1999).

The consequence-based assessment methodology focuses on several conceivable

event scenarios, while the risk-based assessment methodology assesses the

probability of the possible event scenario (Christou, 1999). The generic safe distance

approach focuses on the type of activities instead of a detailed risk analysis of land-

use type (Christou, 1999). This is derived from an expert judgment mainly based on

historical experience, the effects of similar establishments, or environmental impact

of a plant or installation (Christou,1999). It is based on the principle that land-uses

which are not compatible with each other should be separated by a buffer distance

(Christou., 1999). However, they do not stipulate what these buffer distances should

be, as the extent depends on the type of industrial activity or quantity and type of

hazardous substance involved (Christou, 1999). In Spain, for example, Spanish

scientists calculated the levels of an aromatic compound (benzene) and a hydrocarbon

(n- hexane) at three Murcia petrol stations, near the petrol pumps and surrounding

areas, to determine the distance at which the petrol stations can be considered

hazardous (Mail online, 2011). The analysis considered several factors, such as the

number of petrol pumps, the amount of fuel drawn from them, traffic intensity, the

type of surrounding buildings, and weather conditions (Mail online 2011). Based on

their assessment they concluded that a minimum distance of 50 meters is required

between petrol stations and housing developments (Mail online 2011). They also

concluded that 'especially vulnerable' facilities such as hospitals, health centers,

12
schools and old people's homes, should be at least 100 meters away (Mail online

2011). In Nigeria, the Department of Petroleum Resource (DPR) stipulates that a

petrol station should be located a minimum of 50 meters away from built-up areas, to

create a buffer zone devoted to non-residential land-use (DPR, 2007). Petrol stations

should be at least 100 meters from schools, hospitals, theatres, clinics and other

public and semi-public buildings (DPR 2007). The regulations state that there should

be a distance of at least 15 meters from the edge of the road to the nearest pump

(DPR, 2007). In addition, the DPR states that petrol stations should be located at least

400 meters apart (DPR 2007). To approve a new development, they stipulate that

there should be no more than four other petrol stations within a two-kilometer radius

of the proposed site (DPR 2007). The safe distance assessment approach followed by

the GDoACELA in South Africa, Ghana, Spain and Nigeria respectively suggests a

consensus. First, petrol stations should be no nearer than 50 meters from residential

buildings, and there should be a distance of at least 100 meters between petrol

stations facilities such as hospitals, health centers, schools and old people’s homes.

Secondly, there should be minimum safety distance between petrol stations. In NOC

guidelines, a minimum safety distance is three kilometers (PVR, 2075), while it is

less than two kilometers in Nepal (DPR, 2007).

2.5 Nepal Oil Corporation Limited

The primary sources of energy supply in Nepal are crude oil and petroleum products

as well as natural gas. Nepal Oil Corporation Limited (NOC) imports, stores and

distributes various petroleum products in the country. In Nepal, no private or other

companies are allowed to import Petrol and Diesel other than NOC. It is established

on 1970 by the Government of Nepal under the "Company Act, 2021 (1964)". Nepal,

13
being one of the land locked countries of south Asia, has to depend on India for the

supply and distribution of various petroleum products as the eastern, southern and

western part of the country is attached with India. Nepal Oil Corporation Limited

(NOC) that imports, stores and distributes various petroleum products in the country.

In Nepal, no private or other companies are allowed to import Petrol and Diesel other

than NOC. In the very beginning, the trading activities of NOC are started by storing

two products in two drums under the leadership of the late Mr. Subarna Bikram

Thapa appointed by Government of Nepal. His persistent endeavor to develop NOC

resulted in more than 30,000 kilolitres (KL) of storage facilities for petroleum

products in different development regions of Nepal. Nepal, being one of the land

locked countries of south Asia, has to depend on India for the supply and distribution

of various petroleum products as the eastern, southern and western part of the country

is attached with India. The prospect of crude oil exploration in Nepal has not yet been

proven a feasible one, so the entire national demand is met by import alone. From the

very beginning of NOC's trading activities, a special and long-term supply

arrangement has existed with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOC), a leading national

oil company of India, having more than of the market shared. The prospect of crude

oil exploration in Nepal has not yet been proven a feasible one, so the entire national

demand is met by import alone. From the very beginning of NOC's trading activities,

a special and long-term supply arrangement has existed with Indian Oil Corporation

Ltd. (IOC). In terms of demand by source, the total imports of petroleum products, in

fiscal year 2018/19, 58.0 percent was diesel, 19.0 percent petrol and 15.0 percent

LPG (MOF, 2019). The lowest volume of import is of kerosene 1.0 percent and

aviation fuel 7.0 percent (MOF, 2019). Transport sector consumes about 63% of total

imported petroleum fuel and the majority of this fuel is consumed by vehicles in

14
Kathmandu valley ( Dr Bajracharya & Bhattarai, hydro Nepal2016).The valley

consumed 46% of the total petrol and 16 % of the total diesel sales in Nepal, which

were largely consumed in the transport sector (MPITDTM, 2012). NOC,

headquartered in Kathmandu, has over the years expanded and now has Seven

Provincial offices in every State of Nepal, Three branch offices, two fuel depots, One

Petrol Pump, and Ten aviation fuel depots, with total existing storage capacity of

71,558 kilolitres (kL) and employing 872 permanent staffs and other contract work

force. The highest policy making and controlling body of NOC is its board of

directors. The board is represented by all bureaucrats except one as expert, expert is

also appointed by the government of Nepal. Currently the chief executive officer

(CEO) of NOC is the managing director who has the overall responsibility for day-to-

day operations besides the member-secretary of NOC Board. Basically, the operations

of NOC are coordinated under two broad categories of marketing cum engineering

and finance cum administration.

2.6 Criteria for location of petrol filling stations in Nepal

Stations should be located within a growth center or an urban area except in

circumstances where it can be shown through appropriate studies that the need exists

otherwise. Land should be zoned for commercial/industrial use or be designated

specifically for the purpose in a subdivision. Alarmingly, these stations have

continued running their business despite the warning from Nepal Oil Corporation

that they should be closed down or relocated. Electric wires hang over some of these

stations posing the risk of short circuiting, which, when occurs, will set the stations

in blaze. One petrol station normally stores 20,000 liters of diesel and 12,000 liters

of petrol, which means that around 3.4 million liters of diesel and two million liters

15
of petrol are in underground storage inside the valley. Imagine the disaster in case of

fire outbreaks in and around such stations. It is troubling that these stations do not

abide by the safety directives formulated by NOC. According to the directives, each

petrol pump must compulsorily have four fire extinguishers weighing 10 kilograms,

there should be a concrete compound wall of three to five feet or cemented pillars

with barbed wire on three sides. The refilling area should be covered with a canopy

of around 18 meters and up to 30 meters of roof. There should be a fire retardant

system inside the compound and underground containers. And most of all, there

must be a distance of at least 10 kilometers between two petrol stations so as to

prevent fire spreading between them. But as things stand, many stations are only one

kilometer apart (PVR, 2075).

Likewise, underground containers for petroleum products should be away from

human settlements and there should also be a three to five feet wall around the petrol

station. These stations have blatantly ignored these requirements and NOC stands as

a helpless spectator. NOC officials cite lack of law to take action against them. If

that is the case, the government should immediately formulate the required law.

Stations should be located at a minimum of 500 ft. from any public institution such

as schools, churches, public libraries, auditoriums, hospitals, public playgrounds, etc.

Area of land to be developed should be sufficient to allow maneuvering of vehicles

within its cartilage but should not be less than 12,000 sq. ft. with a minimum

frontage of 300 ft. on the primary street.

Petrol Stations will not be allowed in any area where the traffic situation is such that

it will cause obstructions in entering or leaving a station or on tight curves where

visibility is not adequate. Vehicular access/egress/crossover should be reasonably

16
safe with adequate approach distances especially where main roads and intersections

are involved. Wherever possible, stations should be erected on level rather than

sloping site to prevent rolling or discarded materials such as cans, drums, etc. This

should be in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Department of

Petroleum Resources( NOC) and Fire service safety rules that the distance between

two nearest petrol stations should be 300 meters and between a petrol station to the

nearest residential building should not be less than 50m to shun possible hazards

(Petroleum Vendors Regulations PVR, 2075). Likewise, the underground containers

for petroleum products should be well away from human settlements and there

should also be a three to five feet wall around the petrol station.

17
 CHAPTER - III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

Every study has a research design which sets the logical and systematic planning as

well as direction of the study. According to the nature of the study different types of

research designs are used for different types of study (Young 1988, Kothari 1988).

The study examined explore issues of disaster preparedness in petrol station at close

proximity of residential area in Samakhusi, Kathmandu and identifies the potential

possible disasters risk; assess perception of people of the adequacy of sitting of petrol

station and disaster risk prevention practices among stakeholder and workers. The

study will also aim at examining the environmental effects of petrol stations at close

proximities to residential buildings in Kathmandu. This study has used qualitative

content analysis to answer the research questions. In qualitative research, content

analysis is acknowledged as one of the “the longest established method of text

analysis among the set of empirical methods of social investigation" Further

qualitative content analysis is, considered as most relevant approach in qualitative

analysis of documents as it comprises of understanding the underlying ideas and

themes in the materials being analyzed (Bryman, 2004; 392).

3.2 Selection of the Study Area

The Kathmandu Valley historically known as Nepal Valley lies is the most developed

and populated place in Nepal. The majority of offices and headquarters are located in

the valley, making it the economic hub of Nepal. Kathmandu valley is bowl-shaped.

Its central lower part stands at 1,425 metres (4,675 ft) above sea level. Kathmandu
18
valley is surrounded by four mountain ranges: Shivapuri hills, Phulchowki, Nagarjuna

and Chandragiri. The valley is made up of the Kathmandu District, Lalitpur District

and Bhaktapur District covering an area of 220 square miles (570 km2). The valley

consists of the municipal areas. Tokha municipality is highly populated municipality

of Kathmandu. There are many petrol station and bus station beside and nearby to this

municipality. The Kathmandu valley is the capital city of Nepal. It has been the

headquarters of many offices and the most populated settlements area of Nepal. As a

result, there has been mass/proliferation of petrol stations within the township over

the years to make good business. The following Picture shows the study area.

Figure 3.1: Study area of Petroleum Station, Samakhusi Area, Kathmandu

3.3. Nature and Source of Data

The nature of data of this study will be qualitative and quantitative. They will gather

from primary and secondary sources. The primary data will be collected from the

field work of this area. Fuel Stations will be observed and examined the disaster

preparedness and prevention practices of these petrol stations and the possible hazards

associated with their locations in Samkhusi/Gongabu, Kathmandu. Secondary data

19
will be collected through the published and unpublished documents related to the

present study.

3.4. Universe and Sampling

There are around 2,500 petrol pumps across the country in Nepal (NOC, 2019).

According to NOC, there are 123 petrol stations in Kathmandu, 29 in Lalitpur and 20

in Bhaktapur. As at 2019, there are 123 petrol stations in Kathmandu out of which

112 are functional and 11are non-functional (NOC, 2019). The functional petrol

stations are those actively in service dispensing petroleum products to customers;

while the non-functional are those which previously are actively in service. Data for

the study are obtained through structured questionnaire and interview schedule

administered to the respondents in the area, field measurement and the use of Google

map. Purposive and random sampling techniques are employed in the study.

Following the DPR petrol stations routes in the area of the 123 petrol stations are

selected as universe to across the routes. Among them 8 sampled petrol stations and

80 respondents are randomly selected to give. Workers from each of those petrol

stations are equally selected at random to give 40 respondents, 20DM official and 30

residents nearby living around each are also selected at random as samples to give 80

in total. The data obtained are then analyzed using simple descriptive statistics such as

frequencies and percentages. Hazards variables assessed in relation to distance

between petrol station and the residential area are: air pollution, fire outbreak, traffic

congestion, felling of trees, traffic accidents, noise and soil pollution.

20
 CHAPTER – IV

FINDIING OF THE STUDY AREA

This chapter presents the findings of the research. It discusses the location analysis

of petrol stations regarding the sitting close residential area in Samakhusi/Gangabu

and the surrounding areas.

4.0 Socio demographic of the study participant

Table 4.0 Socio demographic of the study participant

Gender of respondent Frequency Percent

Male 70 87.5
Female 10 12.5
Total 80 100.0
Sources: Field survey

This table 4.0 simply displays the gender of the respondents, with 87.5% of the

respondents were male, while 12.5% were female.

4.1 Location and distribution of petrol station Samakhusi/Gongabhu area of

Kathmandu

In Samakhusi/Gangabu, 8 petrol stations were identified within a three-kilometer area

from the police station (DMTC). They are not equally distributed spatially. Along the

main roads, there are three petrol stations and there are five other petrol stations

located along secondary roads, avenues and streets. The distance between them is less

than 200 meters and they are on opposite sides of the road. Of the eight petrol

stations, these are the nearest to each other. The next closest are petrol stations on

secondary road, with less than 300 meters between them. Petrol station is found to the

21
south west of the town. According to NOC’s guidelines and international good

practice the acceptable distance between petrol stations should be at least three-

kilometers. These location guidelines prohibit two or more petrol stations within

three-kilometers. The table below illustrates that average distance of petrol station

from police station (DMTC) to manage disaster. The researcher carried out an

assessment of petrol station to determine their distance from the police station. The

results are as presented in Table 4.1

Table 4.1: Distance from petrol station to police station (DMTC) facilities

Average distance from police station to the closest petrol station

Frequenc Valid Cumulative
Distance Percent
y Percent Percent
2 km 1 1.3 1.3 1.3
3km 6 7.5 7.5 8.8
4km 40 50.0 50.0 58.8
Vali
5km 17 21.3 21.3 80.0
d
more than
16 20.0 20.0 100.0
5km
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

Table 4.1 above shows the police station closes to petrol station of respondents to

take up any disaster in the area. Majority (50%) stated that they are close to petrol

station up to 4 km as regards while a 21.3% indicated a next level of significance as

regards closest petrol station up to 5km from Police station to respond disaster. A low

percentage of 1.3% and 7.5% represented the level of insignificance of such a disaster

or fire explosion situation by prospective petrol station.

4.2 Conformity of petrol station with development good practices in

Samakhusi

22
The sitting of petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu conforms neither to NOC’s

guidelines nor international good practice. In several instances, development, in the

form of residential apartments, hostels and commercial buildings, has occurred near

petrol stations. In addition, seven petrol stations were within a three-kilometer radius

of each other. The researcher measured the petrol distance if they are in line with the

NOC and Ministry of land management specifications and to verify whether they are

spacious enough to provide a safe service environment for residents. The results are

presented in Table 4.2 and 4.2.1.

Table 4.2: Adequacy of distance between petrol stations

Distance between fuel stations

Cumulative
Distance Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent
Adequate 24 30.0 30.0 30.0
Valid Inadequate 56 70.0 70.0 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The available above table shows a 70% respondent answer inadequate distance

between fuel stations. 30% respondent respond a distance between fuel stations are

adequate.

Table 4.2.1: Adequacy of distance between petrol station and houses

Distance between petrol station and houses

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent
Adequate 1 1.3 1.3 1.3
Valid Inadequate 79 98.8 98.8 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0

23
 Sources: Field survey

The table shows distance between fuel station and houses are inadequate because

98.8% respondent uptake inadequate while interviewing them and 1.3% respond in

favor of adequate.

4.3. Land-Use at petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu

As Table 4.3 shows, different land-use are found immediately in and around the

petrol stations. These land-use types are classified as commercial activity, dwellings,

hostels and other buildings. In this classification, commercial activity refers to any

activity that involves buying and selling, including convenience stores, fast food

restaurants, Laundromats, warehouses and retail stores, factory shops etc. Dwellings

comprise any self-contained unit of accommodation such as a house, an apartment

block, mobile home, or other 'substantial' residential structure. A hostel is defined as

an establishment which provides lodging for a specific group of people, such as

students, workers or travelers. Other buildings refer to any structure that belongs

either to institutions, i.e. government or university buildings, or structures used for an

unknown or unidentified activity. These land-use types are not evenly distributed

around the petrol stations. Some petrol stations have more dwellings and hostels close

to them, while others have commercial buildings with no dwellings or hostels.

Several petrol stations were attached to convenience stores. Some petrol stations have

primarily residential apartments around them, while others have more commercial

buildings.

Table 4.3: Land-use in and around petrol stations

Petrol stations Land-use in and surrounding petrol stations

24
 1 Commercial buildings
2 Commercial buildings
3 Residential building & commercial buildings
4 University building, hostel and commercial buildings
5 Hostel, commercial building & other buildings
6 Residential building & commercial buildings
7 Residential buildings & commercial buildings
8 Commercial buildings
9 Commercial building & other buildings
Sources: Field survey

4.4. Land-Use development procedure in Samakhusi/Gangabu

In Samakhusi/Gangabu, as elsewhere, individuals or developers wishing to build on

land are expected to conduct an EIA and obtain approval from the Provincial

Department of Environmental Affairs and Planning (DEADP). Once DEADP

approves a development, a developer must apply to the Municipality for permission to

develop the area. The purpose of the application is to ensure that developments

comply with the municipal zoning scheme and prevent illegal land use development.

The Municipality considers any developments bypassing this step as illegal. However,

those interviewed noted that illegal developments are not unusual. Notwithstanding

the EIA, the Municipality conducts its own risk evaluation of the proposed

development when a developer submits their proposed plans. A developer is required

to submit multiple development plans and indicate the preferred option, with

supporting reasons for their choice. The RSLUP department then circulates the

development plan proposal to other relevant departments and functions, including

DM, FP, and traffic and civil engineering, to identify and consider any shortcomings

and effects regarding their respective functions. These role-players provide feedback

to the RSLUP department, where they have an opportunity to raise any concerns. The
25
developer is expected to address concerns before their plans can be approved. Nearly

all the Petrol station in Samkhusi area is day station. People have to commute to using

vehicles such as buses, car and motorcycles. Many also walk to petrol station. There

are many instances where people have been involved in accidents as pedestrians or

passengers, some culminating into fatalities due to negligence, ignorance or sheer

irresponsibility in observing basic road usage rules. The researcher sought from

resident whether urban planners are knowledgeable of various petrol station

development procedures. The results are as shown in Table 4.4

Table 4.4: Role of urban planner for petrol station development procedure

Role of urban planner

Responses Percent of
N Percent Cases
Develop land use plans 48 36.4% 60.0%
Role of Urban planner Administer government 28 21.2% 35.0%
for petrol stations plans or polices
Supervision 47 35.6% 58.8%
Leadership 9 6.8% 11.3%
Total 132 100.0% 165.0%

Sources: Field survey

The above table shows 36.4% respondents believe role of urban planners is to

develop land use plan and where interviewing 21.2% respondent uptake role of urban

planner is to administer government plan or polices in petrol station. Similarly, 35.6%

respondent emphasize urban planners should have supervision time to time in petrol

station. Despite, 6.8% respondents admit that urban planner should have leadership

role as well.

26
4.5 Policy of petrol station buildings

Samakhusi/Gangabu area uses its own unique zoning scheme. As with any other

municipality, the zoning scheme is tailored to the Municipality’s developmental and

strategic priorities. However, the Municipality does not have a specific policy in

relation to the location of petrol stations. In interviews with municipal role players

noted that the Municipality’s zoning scheme/policy regulations do dictate the features

of petrol stations. Under the 2015 zoning scheme regulations, petrol station buildings

should cover 75% of the site area; be a maximum of three storey's high; setback three

meters from roads (five meters on proclaimed Main Roads); and 10 meters from other

zones such as shops (MoLRM,2015:32). This was amended in 2019, to include

additional provisions. These include that the entrance and exit to and from petrol

stations or public garages must be:

a. not less than 30 meters from the point where a proclaimed or planned main

road intersects any other road, or the nearest point of an intersection where

traffic is controlled, or is proposed to be controlled, by a traffic signal or

traffic island;

b. not less than one and a half meters from the side boundary of the premises;

and

c. Not less than 10 meters from the corner of an intersection that is 10 meters

wide or five meters from the point where the line of splay (or site line) meets

the road boundary.

These additional amendments are aimed at managing and ensuring the free,

unobstructed and safe flow of traffic. They did not consider fire-safety at petrol

stations. This is because stakeholders such as DM and FP/FS do not perceive petrol

stations as potentially hazardous sites, as there have been no major fires or accidents

27
in Samakhusi/Gangabu area. The municipality building guideline and types of

building material criteria to build a house and petrol station should be mandatory in

Samkhusi area. The study sought from stakeholder whether they have provided

guidelines on how members of the petrol station community can prepare for possible

fire related disasters. The findings are as follows:

Table 4.5: Availability of building guidelines

Building guideline and types of building material that are mandatory for
houses around or on the area of petrol station
Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
Percent Percent
Compulsory 18 22.5 22.5 22.5
Valid Optional 62 77.5 77.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The table 4.5 shows that a house and petrol stations have a building guideline and

materials are mandatory or not. The 77.5% respondent replied as optional view and

22.5% brief it as compulsory.

The Municipality does have a policy regarding the location of other land-uses, such as

clubs or liquor stores, with no clubs or liquor stores allowed near schools, churches or

clinics. Interviews with DM and FP/FS stakeholders indicated that petrol stations are

not a priority hazard. Fires at petrol stations are not included in DM’s priority hazard

list. While most stakeholders perceived the risk of a fire at a petrol station to be low,

the municipal planner acknowledged the potential danger, noting that there are also

health and environmental hazards associated with petrol stations. The planner

emphasized that the role of land-use planning is to enforce and ensure compliance

28
with the zoning scheme. If the disaster risks associated with petrol stations and the

distance between developments are not identified in the zoning scheme, these will not

be considered in developing land. “Invest huge capital in building petrol stations;

planners do not intensively look at disaster imposed by such developments but focus

on the economic benefits to the local community and municipality” (RSLUP

department Interviews, 2018). This promotes economic development at the expense

of safety. According to FS and DM records, there have been no significant fires or

accidents at petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu. Nonetheless, the planner

recommended that the Municipality should craft and develop a policy that deals with

the sitting of petrol stations, to for example, ensure that petrol stations are located a

safe distance from one another. However, he also highlighted that

Samakhusi/Gangabu is a historical town, with available land already developed. The

current planning in Samakhusi/Gangabu reflects decisions made years ago, although

in some cases developments have been upgraded. While he stressed a need for

measures to protect residents, when asked if he could consider the EIA guidelines

argued that “each town has a unique environment; therefore, I believe that these

guidelines would not be useful in the sense of applicability to Samakhusi/Gangabu.

29
 CHAPTER - V

DATA ANALISIS AND PRESENTATION

Considering the closeness of the residential housing, the petrol stations and to each

other, this chapter examines how well prepared Samakhusi/Gangabu area is to

respond to a disaster at a petrol station. The chapter also discusses the related

institutional management challenges facing the area, as well as disaster risk behaviors

and disaster prevention measures at petrol stations. This information was established

through interviews as well as site observation.

5.1. Emergency response preparedness plan

Nepal has developed a Disaster Management Plan in May 2009, which establishes

governance procedures and arrangements for disaster risk management, including

preparing for and responding to disasters within the Municipality. The HFA and

Sendia framework argues that plans are critical for effective response (Coppola,

2015). The Samakhusi/Gangabu area’s Disaster Management Plan consists of four

key coordinated processes and institutional arrangements: for disaster management;

risk assessment and establishing a risk profile; disaster risk reduction planning; and

disaster preparedness. Responsibility for reducing disaster risk, preparing for and

responding to disasters is shared by all local municipal departments and employees,

the Tokha Municipality, provincial and national organs of state and all sectors of

society. Local Municipality is required by the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2017

to conduct risk assessments and identify disaster risks threatening the Municipality

and to develop risk reduction and preparedness plans for the identified threats (DMA,

2017). This systematic process aims to create an environment conducive for

30
institutions and community organizations to understand and reduce risk. The national

disaster management framework of 2005 is a legal instrument specified by the Act to

guide integrated action, by providing a coherent, transparent and inclusive policy on

disaster management appropriate for the whole Nepal (NDMF, 2005).

5.1.1 Availability of disaster management plan

The study sought from respondent worker whether they have acquired the petrol

station safety standards manual from the NOC for their petrol station. The results are

as presented in table 5.1

Table 5.1: Availability of Disaster management plan

Disaster management plan in these petrol stations

Frequenc Cumulative
DM Percent Valid Percent
y Percent
Yes 62 77.5 77.5 77.5
Response No 18 22.5 22.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

Table above shows the disaster management plan of respondents in the Samakhusi

area available for petrol station. Majority (77.5%) stated that they are indifferent as

regards the uptake disaster management plan while a (22.5%) indicated a low level of

significance as regardless of using disaster management plan.

5.1.2. Capability of the Petrol stations to respond to the crisis

The study sought from respondent whether petrol station have capacity to respond to

crisis during disaster or not. The results are as presented in table 5.1.2

Table 5.1.2: Petrol stations Capability to respond to the crisis

Capability Frequency Percent

Yes 11 13.8
31
 No 69 86.3
Total 80 100.0
The above table shows capability of the petrol stations to respond to the crisis. 86.3 %

respondent response they are less equipped to respond to crisis whereas 13.8% data

describe as well equipped.

5.2. Institutional management

Central government is more responsible for responding to disaster or fires at petrol

stations or events within the urban footprint, and the District Municipality for

everything outside it. District Municipality has the following functions and powers in

respect to fires:

a. planning, co-ordination and regulation of fire services;

b. specialized firefighting services such as mountain, veld and chemical fire

services;

c. coordinating the standardization of infrastructure, vehicles, equipment and

procedures; and,

d. Training of fire officers in the Kathmandu District Municipality

32
 Figure 4.1.Institutional challenges of Petrol Station

Most of the respondents take challenges as management (50.0%), while the next most

significant frequency distribution was the Coordination(26.5%). 12.7% and 10.8%

representing Communication and leadership challenges respectively.

5.2.1. Highest responsible level to coordinate disaster

Central level and local level government were indicated as highest responsible level

for coordinating disaster as from respondent questionnaires answer. The results are as

presented in Figure 4.1.

Figure 4.2: Highest responsible level to coordinate disaster in petrol station

The above pie chart shows that central government got 36.3% from respondent which

is higher than other frequency as well and indicates more responsible for fire

explosion response where local level government seems responsible 32.5 % from

respondent interview. Whereas, Data about self is 22.5% should be also more

responsible to respond fire explosion.

33
Neither Samakhusi/Gangabu Municipality, nor the Kathmandu District Municipality

is responsible for conducting fire drills at petrol stations. However, it could be argued

that both DM in their efforts to ensure adequate preparedness for disaster, should test

their own preparedness levels, raise awareness about how to respond in the event of a

disaster, as well as identify escape and alternate routes that the public and responders

would need to use. The municipal and DM officials indicated that the Municipality

had visited a few shops, restaurants, commercial centers and one petrol station to

distribute the (now old) number to call in emergencies. This implies that, prior to this,

the emergency number was unknown, and is now obsolete. The visit did not include

any other awareness raising or oversight activities. The study sought to establish the

extent of planning for disaster awareness in Petrol station in Samkhusi area.

Table 5.2: Awareness level of people on increase petrol station

Proliferation of fuel station awareness

Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
Percent Percent
Aware 17 21.3 21.3 21.3
Response Unaware 63 78.8 78.8 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The above 5.2 table shows that 78.8% of respondent are unaware of proliferation of

petrol station and 21.3% are aware of it.

Table 5.2.1: Awareness level of people on possible potential danger in petrol

station

Potential danger awareness

Frequenc Cumulative
Percent Valid Percent
y Percent
Aware 42 52.5 52.5 52.5
Response Unaware 38 47.5 47.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0

34
 Sources: Field survey

The above 5.2.1 table indicates 52.5% of respondent are aware of potential danger

from petrol station. And still 47.5% are unaware of its potential danger.

Table 5.2.2: Awareness level of people on health hazard

Health hazard awareness

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent
Aware 23 28.7 28.7 28.7
Respons
Unaware 57 71.3 71.3 100.0
e
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The table 5.2.2 shows that 71.3 % respondents are unaware of health hazard

associated with petrol station. 28.7% respondent are aware of health hazard related to

petrol station.

5.3. The Municipality's standard operating procedures

The municipal role players indicated that the Municipality’s Standard Operating

Procedures (SOPs) have not been tested with respect to disaster or fire related

emergency at a petrol station. The SOPs facilitate and guide collaborative efforts

between different municipal departments and institutions during an emergency. Under

existing SOPs, an emergency call reporting a disaster or fire-related emergency is

received at the Samakhusi/Gangabu Local Municipality’s DM call centre and is then

redirected to FP/FS, Law Enforcement or Police, the Traffic department or other

relevant institutions. All these departments should play a unique but complementary

role during an emergency in Samakhusi/Gangabu area. The Police and Law

Enforcement, for instance, are responsible for crowd control, while the Traffic

department focuses on road closures and coordinating emergency routes.

35
Nonetheless, as noted by a respondent from DM in Samakhusi/Gangabu Local

Municipality, a “SOP cannot be a cut and paste exercise, as responding to a structure

fire in an informal settlement [as opposed to] a petrol station is a unique exercise”, as

the substances involved require different treatment. He argued that the SOP has been

standardized to the extent that it ignores the uniqueness of different kinds of disaster.

An interviewee suggested that a specialized SOP should be developed to cater for an

accident or fire at a petrol station (DM department interviews, 2018). This would

need to be tested through fire drills.

zzzzzz

Fire Prevention/Service
Department

Law Enforcement

Disaster Management Traffic department

Police service

Ambulance service

Figure 4.3: Municipality's standard operating procedure

In Samakhusi/Gangabu Municipality share the same premises as DM in the local

municipality, enabling effective communication between the two departments. FP/FS

indicated that their role is to respond to structure fires in Samakhusi/Gangabu,

including petrol station fires. However, as mentioned earlier, there have been no

36
major fires at petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu, which could undermine

preparedness. Moreover, respondents indicated that the Municipal FP/FS has limited

human resources and equipment, which could hamper an effective response should

there be a major fire. It was noted that the distance between the fire station and petrol

stations, especially those further out of town, could present a challenge during peak

traffic hours. According to traffic department, peak hours in Samakhusi/Gangabu are

in the morning and in the evening. The map is derived from the Google Maps live

traffic flows observed over a two-week period. Overall, the map suggests that the

majority of the petrol stations are found near routes where peak-hour traffic flows are

high, resulting in traffic congestion. This is the case in all the petrol stations except

stations in south west of the town, where peak-hour traffic volumes are medium to

low. Such congestion could potentially increase response times, with well-developed

fires harder to control and extinguish.

5.4 Disaster safety at the petrol stations in Samakhusi/Gangabu.

This section explores disaster risk behaviors at petrol stations that could potentially

lead to fires and the prevention measures adopted at petrol stations. It discusses the

findings identified through observation and the application of the adapted Fire Safety

Standards Checklist. As noted earlier, this focused only on facilities visible in and

around petrol station precincts and is supplemented by photographs of the stations.

The study sought to establish the extent to which these petrol station facilities have

met disaster preparedness requirements. To achieve this, the researcher conducted

observation and took measurements of various facilities in the purposively selected

petrol station to ascertain their conformity with the petrol station safety manual

guidelines. Data were analyzed using both descriptive statistics and frequency.

37
 Figure 4.4: State of safety preparedness on petrol station

The above figure shows 22.3% respondent emphasize for staff training should be

conducted to maintained safety in petrol station. Whereas 39.1% respondents admit

that there should be good fuel storage capacity to make petrol station safe. Similarly,

22.9 % and 15.6% respondents emphasize that availability of fire extinguisher and

warning signs are major safety tools plan to make safer petrol station.

The above figure shows Petrol staff should be adequately trained on operational

procedures at petrol stations and should be provided with appropriate protective

clothing for safety. The figure shows Storage tanks and dispense pumps should be

well maintained and monitored to maintain safety in petrol station. The above figure

shows availability of fire extinguisher and warning signs are major safety tools plan

to make safer petrol station. Despite the above figure shows clear warning signs

posted at each pump requesting customers to “Turn off Engine”, "Turn off mobile"

and other sign, in several cases particularly at petrol stations vehicles were filled

while their engines were still running, creating the disaster risk of fires. There should

be Provision of sufficient designated parking areas away from tanks and pump.

38
5.5 Disaster risk behaviors

Heat, and anything that gives off heat, can ignite fires where there is enough fuel and

oxygen (NEBOSH, 2016). In this regard, it is widely accepted that motorists can

prevent fires by switching off their engines when filling their cars, and by not

smoking. In this respect, the checklist examined risky behaviors, such as motorists

not switching off their cars, or smoking. The storage of petrol may lead to fuel

spillage which can cause fire outbreak if not properly handled. During the inferno, a

lot of lives could be lost and valuable properties destroyed.

Usually, there is considerable movement of vehicles during fuel scarcity which could

lead to accidental collision with structures, people and other vehicles. Some items of

stock and chemicals used in car wash and general cleaning in service stations can be

harmful. Chronic exposure to them through use, accidental spillage or leakage can

cause respiratory problems, dermatitis or chemical burns to both employees within

the filling station premises and nearby residents. The volatile organic compound in

petroleum motor spirit pollutes the air with attendant health effects on the inhabitants

of the area and the environment in general. Also, such hazardous chemicals tend to

react with the paint of buildings, thus damaging the aesthetics of any nearby

residential building.

5.5.1 Inspection on disaster incident of petrol stations

Workers and residents were asked is there any fire or an explosion incident in their

near petrol station. The results are as presented in Table 5.5.1.

39
 Table 5.5.1: State of fire or an explosion incident on petrol stations

Fire or an explosion incident at any petrol station in Samakhusi area

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent

Yes 12 15.0 15.0 15.0

Valid No 68 85.0 85.0 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The above table shows data of fire or an explosion at any petrol station of Samakhusi

area. 15% respondent reply fire and explosion in petrol station was take place

whereas 85% respondents admit there was not major incident in the area.

5.5.2. Sensitization of worker on dangers of fire

Table 5.5.2: Level of danger for residential area being close to petrol station

Petrol stations danger consideration close to residential area

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent
No danger 1 1.3 1.3 1.3
Moderate danger 10 12.5 12.5 13.8
Valid
Severe danger 69 86.3 86.3 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0

The researcher asked worker to indicate whether they have received sensitization on

the dangers of fire. The results are as presented in Table 5.5.2.

The above table 5.5.2 considers from 86.3% respondent that it's severe danger to be

close residential area of petrol station whereas other respondent stated 1.3% and

12.5% no danger and moderate danger.

5.5.3 Possible disaster implication to an individual

40
Table5.5.3: Frequency level of disaster implication on an individual

Possible disaster implication to an individual

Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent

Public 68 85.0 85.0 85.0

petrol station 4 5.0 5.0 90.0
Valid Pump attendant 4 5.0 5.0 95.0
Traffic 4 5.0 5.0 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

Table 5.5.3 display data as regards the possible affects to an individual having

relation with petroleum filling station on the disaster. The top implications based on

the responses given were public with percentage values of 85% respectively. The

least three significant implications include; petrol station, pump attendant and traffic

5% values respectively during disaster period.

5.6. Disaster prevention equipment at petrol stations

The observation component examined fire prevention mechanisms, including visible

evidence of (a) adequate fire safety ensure measures, (b) Specific safety

controls/measures availability for ignition sources or sources of fuel, (c) disaster risk

prevention practices systems (d) escape and evacuation planning, and (e) equipment

to fight fires. It was observed that all the petrol stations have posted conspicuously

warning signs at pumps. These included signs specifying: “No smoking”; “No naked

lights”; “Stop engine”; “Switch off cell phones”. However, emergency equipment

may have been comprised. For instance, while fire extinguishers were visible and

located in areas easily accessible to petrol attendants, some were not protected from

41
weather. According to Hugo & Montanye (2016) prolonged sun exposure can cause

parts to fail and the chemical agents in fire extinguishers to clump together, making

them ineffective. There should be enforcement of required safety regulation and

standards for safety in Petrol stations of Samakhusi area. The indiscriminate sitting of

fuel stations within residential areas should be stopped to avoid fire outbreaks and

accidents during fuel scarcity. The tables below depict the frequency distribution of

certain variables with their percentages accordingly, giving a descriptive analysis of

the various data sets below. This data from the tables will help the researcher assess

the research objectives stated earlier, and also come to a conclusion as regards the

research aim.

5.6.1. State of disaster safety ensure measures

Table 5.6.1: Disaster prevention procedure available in petrol station

Resident safety way to ensured near petrol station

Responses Percent of
N Percent Cases

Planning 41 37.3% 51.9%

Asses possible hazards 6 5.5% 7.6%

Resident safety way
near petrol station Promotion ways of avoiding 19 17.3% 24.1%
risk, hazard and vulnerability

Mitigation 44 40.0% 55.7%

Total 110 100.0% 139.2%

Sources: Field survey

Table 5.6.1 above simply shows the distribution of responses given by some of the

respondents as regards the ensure safety way for resident near petroleum filling

stations. Majority indicated similar responses as categorized earlier in the

questionnaires administered. 40.0% stated that mitigation is the most pertinent

42
disaster prevention measures for the filling stations have on close proximity to

residential area, while 37.3 % stated that planning is also a significant safety measures

they face as regards the location of petroleum filling stations in the area. Other

notable fire safety ensured include the assessing possible hazard and promotion

ways of avoiding risk within the area; 5.5% and 17.3% respectively.

5.6.2. Availability of Specific safety controls/measures that petrol station has

done to ensure safety in and around petrol station

Table 5.6.2: Availability of Safety measures in and around petrol station

Specific safety controls/measures available in petrol station to ensure safety in

and around petrol station
Cumulative
Frequency Percent Valid Percent
Percent
Available 22 27.5 27.5 27.5
Valid Unavailable 58 72.5 72.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The above table 5.6.2 shows the specific control and measures that petrol station

ensures for the people around the station. The 72.5% respondent response unavailable

of safety measures where 27.5% as available in case of fire or any disaster.

5.6.3 State of disaster risk prevention practices by worker

Petrol station worker involvement on disaster risk prevention practices

Responses Percent of
N Percent Cases
Fire rescue training 10 25.0% 35.7%
Fire Extinguisher
16 40.0% 57.1%
handling training
disaster risk prevention
personal protective
practices 5 12.5% 17.9%
equipment
first aid training 4 10.0% 14.3%
Inspection 5 12.5% 17.9%
Total 40 100.0% 142.9%
Table 5.6.3: State of petrol station for disaster risk prevention practices

Table 5.6.3 displays data as regards disaster risk prevention practices of a petroleum
43
filling station .The top three prevention practices based on the responses given were

Fire Extinguisher handling training within the employee, Fire rescue training within

the area and inspection and protective equipment within the petrol station area, with

percentage values of 40%, 25% and 12.5 % respectively. The least significant is first

aid training within the petrol station area with value of 10%.

5.6.4 Existence of escape and evacuation planning in petrol station

Existence of emergency exit available in petrol station

Responses Percent of
N Percent Cases
exit door 26 35.8% 54.3%
emergency exits in your exit sign 19 22.6% 34.3%
petrol station open space 25 34.0% 51.4%
exit light 10 7.5% 11.4%
Total 80 100.0% 151.4%
Table 5.6.4: Existence of escape planning

Sources: Field survey

The above table 5.6.4 shows the emergency exit available in a petrol station for public

safety in case of any disaster. 35.8% respondents have exit door and 22.65%

respondent from different petrol station has got exit sign .34.0% respondents of petrol

station emphasize on open space. Whereas7.5% respondents from different petrol

stations have exits light.

5.6.5 Existence of disaster Response team

The researcher asked workers and stake holder to state whether they have put in place

disaster response plan for fire emergency. The results are as

44
Table 5.6.5: Existence of disaster Response team in petrol station

State of specific response team for fire emergency in Petrol station

Valid Cumulative
Frequency Percent
Percent Percent
No 67 83.8 83.8 83.8
Evacuation plan 5 6.3 6.3 90.0
Potential shelter 1 1.3 1.3 91.3
Emergency
3 3.8 3.8 95.0
Response services
Employee alarm
2 2.5 2.5 97.5
system
Paramedic team 2 2.5 2.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

The table 5.6.5 above shows 83.8% respondent response don't have a specific

response team of petrol station sitting in Samakhusi area in case of disaster where 6.3

% respondent emphasize on evacuation plan and 1..3% respondent admit potential

shelter whereas emergency services, employee alarm system and paramedic team is

uptake by 2.5%and 2.5% respectively. In total 16.2% only have response plan in case

of any disaster in petrol station.

5.6.6 Availability of staff assembly point for an emergency

Table 5.6.6: Availability of staff assembly point for an emergency

Assembly point available for an emergency

Frequency Percent Valid Percent Cumulative Percent
Valid Yes 46 57.5 57.5 57.5
No 34 42.5 42.5 100.0
Total 80 100.0 100.0
Sources: Field survey

Most of the respondents 57.5% stated that they are aware of assembly point on

emergency while 42.5% stated otherwise.

45
5.6.7 Available equipment to fight fires

Table 5.6.7 Availability of Equipment to respond fight fires

Available equipment for disaster response in petrol station

Responses Percent of
N Percent Cases
fire extinguishers 45 55.6% 76.9%
personnel and fire suit 8 11.1% 15.4%
equipment to respond warning sign 5 5.6% 7.7%
fire fire safety other
22 27.8% 38.5%
equipment
Total 80 100.0% 138.5%
Sources: Field survey

Table 5.6.7 above gives a brief analysis as regards the personnel and equipment

available to respond fire in petrol station. Majority of the equipment within this

category of respondents is the fire extinguisher available at 55.6%, while fire safety

other equipment have a significant distribution; 27.8%.The least represented

equipment type was fire suite and warning sign; 11.1% and 5.6% respectively.

In every petrol station, observations suggest that hose reels may have been too short

to reach all the pumps, especially where there were more than five dispensers. There

were also frequently no visible absorbents such as sand to mop up spillage in the

precinct, and no clear evidence of fire hydrants or assembly/evacuation points. In

petrol station, the evacuation assembly point was within the precinct (area) of the

petrol station, only about 11 meters from the nearest pump. According to municipal

respondents, the designated assembly point for petrol station was an open space

located at the DM/FS offices, across one of the busiest roads in Samakhusi/Gangabu.

This also presents a threat to the safety of customers and staff.

46
 CHAPTER VI:

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

6.1. Summary of findings

The aim of this research was to investigate the extent to which land-use planning in

Samakhusi/Gangabu considers the fire related disaster-risk posed by petrol stations,

and the implications for public safety. The study also examined disaster risk behavior

and preparedness of petrol station in Samkhusi area, Kathmandu and how well

prepared the authorities are to respond to such fires. This was done by first

identifying availability and capability of disasters management plan found in petrol

station, institutional challenges face by petrol station for disasters, state of petrol

station to cope disaster. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and targeted 8

sampled petrol stations and 80 respondents are randomly selected to give. Workers

from each of those petrol stations are equally selected at random to give 40

respondents, 20DM official and 30 residents nearby living around each are also

selected at random as samples to give 80 in total. Data were collected using

questionnaires and an observation schedule. Frequencies and percentages obtained

were presented in frequency distribution tables and figures which were then

internalized and described. The study focused on petrol stations within a four

kilometre radius of the Samakhusi/Gangabu, Kathmandu.

This chapter will provide a critical discussion and analysis of the findings. It will

begin by revisiting the study’s aims and objectives, followed by a discussion of the

findings. It will then discuss the implications of the findings for the current land-use

planning practices, policy, and DRR for petrol station in Tokha Municipality. It will

47
also provide recommendations on how the land-use planning guidelines can better

integrate DRR principles to ensure sustainable development of petrol stations and the

safety of those living and working in surrounding developments. Finally, the chapter

will conclude with proposals for further research. The findings of the study revealed

petrol stations in Samkhusi area are less uptake location guideline with inadequate

distance most of which are as stated by 70% of respondent. The study also examined

state for disaster preparedness and emergency response in the Samakhusi/Gongabhu

area and established that although disaster management plan, a number of workshops

and seminars on disaster awareness have been planned and conducted on rear

occasions, they have less capacity to response disaster given that 86.4% of Worker

have respond as not well equipped .The study also has implications for land-use

planning practices in the municipality. The study found that there were accepted land-

use planning procedures and practices in place, which require that developers conduct

an EIA and apply to the Municipality for permission to develop land. The

Municipality, in turn, should consider the proposed development and its level of

compliance with the municipal zoning policy. However, it was found that the

Municipality’s zoning scheme/policy regulations do not dictate how far away

residential houses, hospitals, schools etc. should be from petrol stations. It was also

found that there were neither provincial nor national guidelines on the sitting of petrol

stations in Kathmandu, Nepal. These findings, together with those on risky practices

at petrol stations, identify a need for measures to protect residents from potential fires

at petrol stations. Buffer zones surrounding petrol stations should be integrated into

the zoning policy. This should also insure that petrol stations are located a safe

distance from one another. The study also sought to establish the levels of disaster

preparedness and established that most petrol stations in Samkhusi are not adequately

48
prepared to deal with disasters as a result of fire related disasters. It was also

established that extent of planning for disaster preparedness in Samkhusi area in

most petrol station not include any other awareness raising or oversight activities

which consist low level of awareness in people. It was therefore concluded that extent

of planning for disaster preparedness in these petrol station in Samkhusi area were

inadequate to effectively prevent and mitigate disasters; a case in point was that most

petrol station (39.1%) believes fuel storage capacity enhancement to reduce fire

disasters and that quite a number of petrol station (22.9%) are storing fire

extinguishers in places where they are likely to be exposed to fire. It was also found

that workers (15.6%) are not conversant with warning sign as some of them are

flouting these rules which might expose them to transport related disasters. The

literature on technological hazards and the record of fires at petrol stations globally

and locally highlights a need to ensure urban public safety through risk-aware

development. Internationally, good practice prevents development near petrol

stations, especially of hospitals, health centers, schools and old people’s homes and

housing. Risk sensitive Land-use planning must play an important role in risk

reduction. In Nepal, there are few regulations with respect to development around

petrol stations, either at the national or provincial level; NOC only has developed

specific guidelines on the sitting of stations. These stipulate that there should be (a) a

generic safe distance of 100 meters between petrol stations and residential properties,

schools, or hospitals and (b) a three-kilometer distance between petrol stations. The

application of these standards shows that the sitting of petrol stations in

Samakhusi/Gangabu does not meet these good practice guidelines. Of the nine petrol

stations in the study area, approximately seven petrol stations were within a three-

kilometer radius of each other, with two stations on opposite sides of a road less than

49
200 meters apart, and another two less than 300 meters apart, along the same street.

Moreover, the results also reveal that the surrounding developments are located

within 100 meters of the petrol stations. Approximately 100 buildings, ranging from

dwellings, hostels, commercial and other buildings were found to be located within

100 meters of petrol stations. These findings show that the current petrol station land-

use model and policies do not recognize the fire related hazard posed by petrol

stations, and do not adequately protect the public. The study also assessed station

physical facilities in relation to disaster preparedness and established that most petrol

station have not modified their station physical facilities in line with safety

requirements. Most petrol station in the Samkhusi have overcrowded area with a

number of them (35.8%) only having exit doors which may make it hard for people

and worker to evacuate in case of an emergency exit. A number of schools (34.0%)

also have open space in case of emergency. The study also revealed that exit sign and

exit light are less available. This means that incase of fire starting from the side of the

stairways, workers and people will lack an alternative evacuation exit. At the same

time, the Municipality’s preparedness to respond to petrol station fires appears low.

This is due to the prioritization of more frequent events. The untested disaster

management plan could compromise effective responses during a fire at a petrol

station. On administrative strategies to promote disaster preparedness, the study

revealed little efforts have been done by petrol station administrations to this end.

Disaster preparedness guidelines such as building guideline were not available or

consider as optional in a large number of petrol station and residential house.

However, it was established that most petrol station are conducting disaster

prevention training practices, in the field or during other outdoor activities. Most

station administrations (40%) practicing Fire extinguisher handling training and also

50
take fire rescue training very often before worker retire on available time basis. Most

of the respondents stated that they are aware of assembly point on emergency while

stated otherwise. The study further revealed that inspection of standards on petrol

station is also being conducted less often in most petrol stations (12.5%). However,

observation of petrol stations suggests the potential for major fires, and the need for

both petrol station managers and the authorities to prepare for these events.

6.2 Conclusion

This study sought to establish state levels of disaster risk and preparedness in petrol

stations close proximities at residential area in Samakhusi area and the results has

shown that the petrol station, to a lesser extent, taken into account the importance of

disaster awareness and preparedness. This is accounted by poor disaster management

plan and less availability safety control measures by petrol station, petrol station

safety manuals being unavailable in most petrol station, lack of Standard operating

procedure in petrol station ,coupled with little responsible done by government

different level to respond disaster awareness and preparedness. These scenarios pose

sense of urgency to Nepal oil cooperation in Nepal to make some adjustments within

the petrol station systems so that the petrol station operate in tandem with the

Ministry of land management guidelines. In proper environmental management, it is

expected that, people and their needs must be placed at the forefront of concern so as

to serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural and social interest

equitably. That is, such attempt must be integrated, acknowledging all the elements of

the environments which are linked and interrelated taking into account the effects and

decision on all aspects of the same environment and the people by pursuing the

selection of the best practicable environmental options such as environmental health

and safety, consequences of policy, programme, project, product, process, service or

51
activities for the purpose of overall environmental protection, conservation and safety

of human life and property.

6.3. Recommendations

For effective placement and disaster preparedness of petrol station in Nepal,

the study outlines the following recommendations:

 State legislature should enact law forbidding either government or individuals

from given out plots of land for location of petrol stations within Samakhusi

and municipality forthwith. Any attempt by either of the two sides to convert

the use of any land within the township should be resisted by the people and

the court.

 Petrol station and other stakeholders ought to provide necessary information

and materials support to petrol station to promote disaster preparedness. The

stake holder and resident should be compelled when constructing any new

buildings to use certified building plans obtained from the Ministry of land

reform.

 Petrol stations operating within the township should be made by law to

establish central private waste management board (Petrol Stations Private

Waste Management Board), with well trained staff on waste management. The

board should be responsible for constant cleaning, evacuations and

management of all waste produced by petrol stations. They should equally be

made to offer periodic community services (free medical service) to the

residents living close to them.

 Ministry of Environment in collaboration with all the petrol stations should

constantly mount public enlightenment campaign using posters, bill boards

and media houses to educate the public on the hazards associated with
52
 petroleum products with respect to human health and the environment so as to

discourage residing close to petrol stations. Every petrol station needs to have

a plan for development of capacity for the location away or as per NOC

guideline to build in residential area to be better prepared in responding to

disaster.

 The Municipality officials should not only over emphasize formal inspection

but also intensify inspection of existing available equipment to ensure that

they comply with safety requirements.

 Petrol station need to protect investment in physical infrastructure and plan for

reinforcement or upgrading of existing structures to become more resistant and

resilient to the damaging effects of disaster for themselves and resident living

around area.

53
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56
 APPENDIX A

Questionnaire

Code No.________

PART A

Respondent’s Characteristics

1. Village/Town Details

a. Name……………………….

b. Tole…………………………

c. District……………….

2. Respondent’s Details

a. Name:…………………………….. Gender(M/F):………….Age:

………….. Education:…………. No. of family member:……………

Relation with the house head:…………… Mobile No.(Optional):

……………………………….

b. Main source of income:

i. Agriculture

ii. Livestock

iii. Business

iv. Labor

v. Other (specify);…………………….

57
 3. Employment amongst different age groups

Gender Male Female

Age group (yrs) 6-18 19-58 >58 6-18 19-58 >58

Unemployed

Unpaid family

worker
Employmen
Self
t
Employment/Smal

l Business

Wages/salaried

Other

PART B
Research Questionnaire
1. Is there a disaster management plan in these petrol stations?
a. Yes
b. No
2. Who is responsible to coordinating the response and responding to fire/
explosion in petrol stations?
a. Central Government
b. Provincial Government
c. Local Level Government
d. Metropolitan City
e. Community
f. Self
g. Others
3. What are the institutional challenges associated with this?
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 a. Management
b. Leadership
c. Coordination
d. Communication
e. others
4. Is there a specific response plan to fire emergency in petrol stations?
a. Yes
b. No
c. If yes, then briefly outline..........
5. Are there sufficient personnel and equipment to respond to fires generally?
a. Yes
b. No
c. If Yes, then mention briefly
6. Are they well equipped to respond to the Crisis?
a. Yes
b. No
7. Do you have capacity to manage disaster at once in community as well as in
petrol station?
a. Yes
b. No
c. Others..............(Please Specify)
8. Do you have select and clearly brief your staffs about an assembly point for an
emergency?
a. Yes
b. No
9. Are there any emergency exits in your Petrol station?
a. Yes
b. No
c. If Yes, Please mention briefly……………
10. Does the Disaster Management (DM) run community awareness workshops
on fire hazards in petrol stations?
a. Yes
b. No

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 If yes, how often..........?

11. What is an average distance from Fire station to the closest petrol stations?
a. 1km
b. 2km
c. 3km
d. 4km
e. 5km
f. More than 5km
12. How can safety be maintained in petrol station?
a. Staff training
b. Fuel safe storage
c. Fire extinguisher
d. Warnings Signs
e. Others..............
13. What role should urban planners play in managing development close to
potentially hazardous sites like petrol stations?
a. Develop land use plans
b. Administer government plans or policies
c. Supervision
d. Leadership
e. Other (if specify)……………
14. Has there been a fire or an explosion at any petrol station in this area?
a. Yes
b. No
If yes,

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 How many where or Who Number of injuries Remarks
incidents? which petrol was and/or deaths and
stations affected properties
? damaged?

15. Is Petrol stations considered dangerous by the close residential area of petrol
stations?
a. No Danger
b. Moderate danger
c. Severe danger
16. Are there specific safety controls/measures that petrol station has done to
ensure safety in and around petrol stations?
a. Available
b. Unavailable
c. Other (if specify)……………
17. Are there building guideline and types of building material that are mandatory
for houses around or on the area of petrol stations?
a. Compulsory
b. Optional
c. Other (if specify)……………
18. How can safety of people residing near petrol station be ensured?
a. Planning
b. Asses possible hazard

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 c. Promotion ways of avoiding risk, hazard and vulnerability
d. Mitigation
e. Others
19. What is perception of people of the adequacy of sitting of petrol station?
1. Distance between fuel stations
a. Adequate
b. Inadequate
2. Distance between fuel station and houses
a. Adequate
b. Inadequate
20. Do you know awareness about possible hazard among stakeholder and worker
of petrol station?
1. Proliferation of fuel stations
a. Aware
b. Unaware
2. Potential danger

a. Aware
b. Unaware
3. Health hazard
a. Aware
b. Unaware

21. Do you have any disaster risk prevention practices?

a. Yes
b. No
c. If Yes, Please mention briefly……………

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APPENDIX B

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