CIDB retracts statement on Putra Heights blast findings

 

Personnel inspect the situation at the fire site involving a 500-meter gas pipeline at a petrol station on Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights. - NSTP/Eizairi Shamsudin

KUALA LUMPUR: The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has retracted a press statement it issued this evening on the Putra Heights gas pipeline explosion which took place on Wednesday.

In its earlier statement, it said no construction works were carried out at the site of the blast on the day of the incident. It said its preliminary investigations also showed that the development project, which had been linked to the explosion, was actually located 30-metres away from the blast site.

In a statement tonight, CIDB said the retraction was made as investigations were still ongoing, involving various authorities.

"CIDB wishes to apologise for any confusion or concern which arose from the statement, particularly among the affected residents.

"We understand the difficulties faced and are working to ensure that the issue is handled with integrity and transparency," it said tonight.

CIDD said as a body responsible for the development of the country's construction industry, it pledged to aid the ongoing investigation.

"CIDB also stresses that we will not compromise on matters of compliance on security standards and construction industry regulations.

"Any breaches or non-compliance will be met with appropriate action, without exception.

"Our commitment is to ensure that the national construction industry operates in the highest standards for the safety, well-being and interest of all parties," it said. - NST