NGO wants closer monitoring, better awareness on gas infrastructure
NGO Rural Malaysia has called for closer monitoring and awareness surrounding the country’s gas infrastructure.
Its secretary-general Anuar Mahmod said the gas pipeline fire at Putra Heights today has underscored a pressing need to improve monitoring and maintenance of the infrastructure.
Summary
NGO Rural Malaysia calls for stricter monitoring and maintenance of gas infrastructure after a pipeline fire in Putra Heights, emphasising risks in rural areas with limited safety measures.
It urges regular inspections, early warning systems, and better coordination between authorities and communities.
The fire has injured at least 112 people, damaged nearly 200 homes and over 150 vehicles, and led to evacuations. The cause is under investigation.
NGO Rural Malaysia has called for closer monitoring and awareness surrounding the country’s gas infrastructure.
Its secretary-general Anuar Mahmod said the gas pipeline fire at Putra Heights today has underscored a pressing need to improve monitoring and maintenance of the infrastructure.
They urged authorities, utility companies, and contractors to take preventive measures to ensure the safety of residents, whether in urban or rural areas.
“As a group fighting for the well-being of rural communities, we believe there is risk of similar incidents happening anywhere, especially in places where the infrastructure is given less attention.
“Rural communities often don’t have access to sufficient safety information and infrastructure that is routinely monitored.
“This leaves them more exposed to danger in the event of an emergency such as a gas leak,” it said.
Regular inspection
Among others, Anuar called for regular inspection and maintenance of gas pipelines, an early warning system to detect leaks at high-risk areas, and awareness programmes so local residents are aware of the pipelines as well as safety and emergency measures that may need to be taken.
There also needs to be coordination between authorities, utility companies, and local communities to come up with an emergency response plan to tackle gas leaks quickly and effectively.
Contractors involved in infrastructure development should also take full responsibility for adhering to safety standards during their work, while inspections and audits ensure compliance.
“We emphasise that the safety of residents should be a priority in any infrastructure development.
“Such incidents should not happen, and all stakeholders need to play their role in preventing such incidents from repeating,” Anuar said.
Catching fire
A gas pipeline had caught fire at Putra Heights, Puchong, this morning, causing a large blaze visible from several kilometres away. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Around 112 injured victims have been evacuated, with 63 taken to hospitals in Cyberjaya, Serdang, and Putrajaya for treatment for burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries.
Another 49 received initial treatment at the Sri Maha Kaliamman temple in Subang Jaya.
Temporary evacuation centres have also been set up at Nurul Iman Mosque and the Putra Heights Mosque.
As of 3.40pm, the Fire and Rescue Department said 190 houses, 148 cars, and 11 motorcycles have been damaged by the fire and its heatwave. The fire is nearly extinguished.
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