Malaysia: A massive explosion, sparked by a fire in a gas pipeline, rocked Putra Heights in Selangor state near Kuala Lumpur, on Tuesday (April 1) morning. The explosion, which occurred near a gas station, triggered a 'mushroom cloud' visible from kilometers away, forcing authorities to evacuate the nearby residential areas.
According to reports, local authorities suggested that the fire was caused by a burst in a Petronas gas pipeline. Fire rescue teams reportedly deployed engines, water tankers, medical response vehicles, and a hazardous materials unit at the site.
As per the The Star newspaper, fire department director Wan Mohamad Razali Wan Ismail, confirmed that several firefighters were rushed to the site for rescue operations.
Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar, Assistant Director of Operations, reported that the distress call came in at 8:10 AM. “The fire involved a leaking Petronas gas pipeline, with an estimated 500 meters of the pipeline engulfed in flames,” he told Malaymail.
The explosion caused widespread damage, as many nearby homes and settlements reportedly engulfed fire. Some residents were also trapped inside their burning homes.
According to the reports, 12 people were injured in the explosion, and 82 others were rescued from the area. After being rushed from the site, victims were provided medical assistance at a temporary relief center at the Putra Heights Mosque Multipurpose Hall. Several individuals suffered burn injuries and are receiving ongoing treatment.
Authorities have since shut off the affected gas pipeline, and rescue teams are currently working to eliminate any remaining fuel.
