Johannesburg explosion: South Africa concern over second possible gas explosion
BY ABBAS MUSA KANEMPRESS
20TH JULY, 2023
South Africs has expressed concern over a second explosion in Johannesburg’s business district, after the death of one person and 48 sustained injuries in a large blast.
South African authorities are concerned there could be a second explosion in Johannesburg’s business district, after one person died and 48 were injured in a large blast on Wednesday.
No exact information on how or what led to the blast.
Officials from Gauteng province, including Johannesburg, suspect the blast may have occurred as some underground gas pipes ruptured.
Several streets have been closed to traffic and electricity supply in the area sealed off.
Reports say main road split open from the force of the explosion, on Wednesday,
with several vehicles blown onto their side.
The scene at Bree Street is identified as a potential risk area as citizens are being evacuated.
Authorities pleaded with South Africans to keep off the area.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi said 12 people are still being treated in hospital for their injuries.
A preliminary inquiry did not say the cause of the blast but investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause.
Local supplier Egoli Gas said a small leak was found in one of the pipes, but believed it is unlikely that it led to the explosion.
The firm has been asked by authorities to check on their other pipes in the area, as a possible gas leak still the focus of investigations.
Witnesses said they felt the ground shake then hearing a loud bang before the earth opened, and a section of Bree Street collapsed.
