Johnathan Paoli
Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, has confirmed that the explosion that rocked the Joburg CBD on Wednesday was caused by gas despite denials by Egoli Gas (Pty) Ltd that its damaged infrastructure resulted in the leak.
In a statement on Thursday, Egoli Gas (Pty) Ltd, denied that pipe collapse, damage or leakage was the cause of the explosion that wrecked the CBD.
Despite Egoli’s denial, Lesufi confirmed that gas was involved, “It is now common knowledge that there is a high smell of gas in the area.”
Lesufi went on to qualify his assertions by saying the teams “only picked up a 100mm pipe that had some leak and have since repaired that particular part… It’s a gas leak but they say it’s minimal, we don’t want to jump to conclusions.”
Reports have suggested that a large underground gas explosion occurred on Wednesday along Bree Street, between Joubert and Simmonds streets, leaving one person dead, 48 people injured and 43 cars damaged.
However, in a statement the gas service provider said that logistically the cause could not be its gas system as the pipes were located on the side of the road, contrary to reports that the wreckage started from the centre of the roads.
In addition, Egoli said that their customers have received no significant interruptions in their gas supply adding that their technical teams have been sent to the site to investigate leaks but none were found.
Emergency Medical Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said that they cannot rule out the possibility of finding more bodies but they’re doing their best to manage the situation.
Lesufi concluded that technical teams will continue to do their work and will keep the area sterile in order to rehabilitate the affected area.
Road closures and diversions will remain in place until further notice.
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