The Ashanti Region may, in the coming days, experience a temporary shortage of gas following a decision by the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to close down all illegally sited and sub-standard gas filling stations in the region. Mr Emmanuel Owusu-Ansah, Ashanti Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC who gave the hint, said the decision to clamp down on sub-standard filling stations was upon the advice of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). He accused some operators of filling stations of not adhering to safety regulations and also not passing through due process in the establishment of their stations, a situation that could endanger the lives of residents if care was not taken. Mr Owusu-Ansah was speaking at the REGSEC's meeting with owners of gas filling stations in the region in Kumasi on Monday. The meeting, which was necessitated by last Friday's explosion at the Engas filling station at Asokwa, was aimed at finding a solution to the haphazard opening of filling stations in the region with their attendant dangerous consequences. The Regional Minister advised operators of filling stations, which had been directed to relocate, to ensure the protection of life and property. He urged those who had been told to institute safety measures to comply with the directive. Source: GNA