WEBDESK: A massive gas pipeline explosion near Kuala Lumpur on April 1 has left more than 100 people injured. The explosion created a huge fireball that was visible for miles. Authorities believe the blast was caused by a gas leak from a pipeline owned by Malaysia’s state-run energy company, Petronas.
The explosion took place in a residential area near Kuala Lumpur, causing severe burns and breathing issues for many victims. Several homes and buildings were damaged due to the powerful blast. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, providing medical assistance to the injured and evacuating nearby residents to safety.
Malaysia’s disaster management unit said that 82 residents had been rescued, and efforts to control the fire remained ongoing. Temporary shelters have been set up at nearby mosques for displaced families.
Selangor’s Deputy Police Chief, Mohamad Zaini Abu Hassan, confirmed that at least 112 people were injured, with 63 needing hospitalisation for burns, breathing problems, and other injuries.
Authorities stated that no deaths have been reported so far, though some people were trapped in their homes when the fire broke out.
Residents reported hearing a loud explosion followed by a fire that spread rapidly. One eyewitness described the scene as “terrifying,” with flames engulfing parts of the Kuala Lumpur neighborhood. Firefighters are still working to contain the blaze, and authorities have urged people to stay away from the area.
Local authorities confirmed that Petronas had isolated the pipeline, and fire crews were working to extinguish the flames. “The situation is being closely monitored, and safety measures are in place to prevent further harm,” a statement from Petronas said.
Local authorities in Kuala Lumpur have assured the public that every effort is being made to control the situation and provide support to those impacted.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the fire’s intensity had diminished, but a residual flame and smoke continued to be visible, according to witnesses several kilometers away.
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