Akmal Azhar
KUALA LUMPUR, April 2
Yesterday’s catastrophic gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights has left a community in tatters and raised troubling questions that extend far beyond the immediate devastation.
The fire, which started in the morning, was caused by a leak in a Petronas gas pipeline, with flames reportedly stretching up to 500 metres and visible from several kilometres away.
The blast, which occurred during the second day of one of Malaysia’s most significant holiday periods, wreaked havoc across the neighbourhood, severely damaging nearly 200 homes.
Some 305 residents have been displaced, with many requiring hospital treatments for injuries sustained in the incident. Thankfully, no fatalities were recorded.
Temporary compensation while a long-term solution is formulated
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has confirmed that compensation for residents affected by the Putra Heights gas line fire will be jointly covered by the federal government, the Selangor state government and Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas).
Speaking after a briefing during his visit to Jalan Putra Harmoni, Anwar announced immediate financial assistance: RM5,000 for homeowners whose properties were completely damaged to cover temporary accommodation costs, and RM2,500 for those with partially affected homes.
Anwar emphasised that ensuring residents’ safety remains the government’s top priority while acknowledging that rebuilding damaged homes could take a year or more.
Initial discussions with the Housing and Local Government Ministry, state authorities and Petronas have confirmed that property restoration will not be a swift process.
The Prime Minister added that the government’s next step involves consulting with various residential associations to determine the most appropriate way forward.
In a statement, Petronas Gas Berhad (PGB) said that it is working closely with the local authorities to manage the situation, and that additional information will be announced in due course as investigations are ongoing.
Petronas Dagangan Berhad (PDB) also said that it is working closely with all relevant parties to ensure the safety of communities, the public and the environment, in line with its policies and standards.
Aftermath
According to Bernama, JBPM director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad said the likelihood of a secondary explosion was very low as no gas flow was detected after the closure of four main valves in Kampung Lombong Puchong, Batu Tiga, Shah Alam and Klang.
“The fire investigation team can now enter the site to identify the cause of the blaze,” he said.
He added that residents could retrieve their belongings or pets under supervision, although electricity supply in the affected area remained unavailable.
Zakirin
