Buildings on Gas Pipeline Routes Increasingly Congested, Oil and Gas Companies Offer Solutions
Pema Global Energi's (PGE) gas pipelines are becoming less vulnerable amidst the numerous buildings and businesses surrounding the pipeline. A resolution to this problem is urgent to avoid dangerous situations.
In recent months, the number of buildings along the pipeline has increased and continues to grow. PGE Field Manager, Ruzi Abdul Muis, revealed that improvements to other facilities have led to increased traffic.
"This opens up new opportunities for people to establish businesses. It's positive for the local economy, but unfortunately, they are being built above high-pressure pipelines," said Ruzi Abdul Muis during a pipeline safety awareness campaign with journalists in Lhokseumawe, Indonesia, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
This situation is very dangerous, not only for traders but also for the surrounding community. However, Ruzi admitted that removing buildings already erected above the pipeline network is not easy, even though his office conducts outreach to the community every year.
Resolving this issue requires a multi-stakeholder approach, particularly the local government. According to Ruzi, there are several safe points around the pipeline. "For example, there's a bend in the pipeline where the area above it is much safer. But if the buildings above it are left untouched while others are not, there's a risk of jealousy. Why are they being treated unfairly?" Ruzi added.
The problem is further complicated by the fact that some traders have already paid unofficial fees to certain parties. The payment of these fees further disadvantages traders who have invested capital to establish their businesses and pay the fees.
Ruzi hopes that all parties will participate in maintaining the high-pressure gas pipeline for the safety of all. He also mentioned the age of the pipeline, which also affects its reliability under pressure. "There are several aspects of pipe durability that must be considered after decades of use," he said.
Finally, there's a misconception among the public that PGE now belongs to the people of Aceh. "Just because it's their own property, it needs to be protected even more," Ruzi advised.
During the outreach, PGE addressed several dangerous aspects of the oil and gas pipeline. PGE also outlined a number of steps that can be taken to maintain safety within the pipeline network, as well as anticipatory measures in the event of an incident.[]
