Sarawak to gazette gas corridors, prevent incidents like Putra Heights blaze

 

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg (right) at the Aidilfitri open house organised by Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman in Kuching. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: 

Sarawak will officially designate gas corridors under the Sarawak Gas Roadmap (SGR) to prevent incidents like the gas pipeline explosion at Putra Heights.

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said the move aims to prohibit any construction within these designated zones, ensuring safety and mitigating risks associated with gas pipelines.

“We are concerned about potential hazards, as seen in Putra Heights. The gas corridor areas, including Samalaju, will be strictly controlled to prevent similar incidents.

“Residential developments and public facilities will not be permitted in these zones,” Bernama quoted him as telling reporters in Kuching today.

Abang Johari said the state government is in a position to implement this measure, as the SGR initiative is still in its early stages.

“The key is to establish a proper buffer zone and designate a wide corridor for gas infrastructure.

“This will allow for early detection of potential hazards and significantly reduce risks in case of a fire or explosion,” he said.

The devastating gas pipeline fire on Tuesday caused towering flames and intense heat, destroying rows of houses and properties, including more than 300 vehicles.

As of 8am today, 377 victims from 98 families are still staying at two temporary relief centres.

Of these, 311 from 84 families are at the Putra Heights Mosque, while 66 from 14 families are at the Subang Jaya City Council multipurpose hall.

According to the health ministry, the number of victims receiving treatment remains the same as yesterday.

Thirty-one individuals are at public hospitals in Putrajaya, Serdang, Klang and Kuala Lumpur, while 33 others are at private hospitals. No fatalities have been reported. - FMT