A powerful underground gas explosion struck the heart of Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city, during rush hour on July 19, leaving one person dead and at least 41 others injured, Aljazeera reported. The incident caused significant damage to roads, vehicles, and nearby structures, leaving authorities scrambling to determine the cause and prevent any potential follow-up disasters.
The blast occurred in downtown Johannesburg, leading to initial suspicions that the underground pipelines supplying gas to the area were to blame. However, the gas company responsible for the supply denied any responsibility, leaving the authorities uncertain about the true cause of the explosion.
The lifeless body of the deceased was discovered during a nighttime search in the blast area, as emergency services and city officials worked tirelessly to assess the situation. An investigation has been launched, and specialists have been called in to determine if there are any other underground pipes or cables that could pose a threat of additional explosions or gas leaks.
Panyaza Lesufi, the premier of Gauteng province, where Johannesburg is located, stated;
"We are still searching for the source," emphasizing the urgency in finding answers and preventing further casualties.
As of July 20, 12 people remained hospitalized for medical treatment, while the other 36 injured individuals had been discharged. In response to fears of a possible second explosion or structural collapse, some people were evacuated from the affected area on the night of July 19. However, by the morning of July 20, people began to return to the central business district, resuming their daily routines.
The extent of the damage was substantial, with an estimated five city blocks affected and at least six roads suffering serious disruptions. Notably, 34 vehicles were damaged in the explosion, with some even flipped on their sides or stacked atop others. Most of the affected vehicles were minibus taxis, a popular commuting method in South Africa.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene, recounting that the explosion threw some people sitting inside the minibusses into the air. One witness, who was in his car at the time of the blast, shared his experience with a local television station, saying;
"The next thing, I was in the air and my car was overturning."
Fortunately, he escaped with only minor injuries.
In the aftermath of the explosion, smoke billowed from cracks in the road, and emergency crews worked through the night to search for survivors and clear the wreckage. The number of injured individuals increased from the initial report of nine people as search and rescue efforts continued.
The situation remains critical as investigators and specialists race to identify the cause of the explosion and take necessary precautions to prevent further incidents. As the city recovers from the shock and devastation, the residents of Johannesburg mourn the loss of life and support those injured in the tragic incident.
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