The government commission has provided an update on their ongoing investigation into the warehouse explosion in Tashkent. They have also outlined the steps taken to minimize damages and support those affected.
During the investigation, it was discovered that the emergency was caused by a fire in a warehouse made of metal and "sandwich" panels. This fire led to the deformation and collapse of the warehouse's metal structures.
Furthermore, the warehouse stored a large quantity of chemical substances and construction materials without following the necessary safety protocols. Chemical analysis of residues found at the site revealed the presence of various substances, including polyethers, xylene, hydrocarbons, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, ethylene glycol, and high-molecular-weight carbonic acid esters.
These substances are components of hydrogen peroxide, alkyd resins, alkylbenzenesulfonic acid, latex, polyether resins, caustic soda, and paint products. This contributed to the high risk of a fire and explosion in the warehouse.
The investigation determined that hydrogen peroxide was stored near the accident site, and sulfuric acid and other flammable materials were present near the area where the fire started. The interaction and self-ignition of these chemicals and materials in the warehouse were identified as the cause of the fire.
In terms of legal implications, the Department of Investigation within the Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched a criminal case in accordance with Article 259 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to arson. Four people have been apprehended and are being held in custody, whereas one person has been put under house arrest.
The incident at the warehouse had a significant impact on the storage of a variety of goods from 12 different rental companies. In the ongoing investigation related to the criminal case, several expert assessments, including chemical, fire safety, technical, structural, market analysis, and construction evaluations, are underway to assess the extent of the damage.
Assessing the Extent of Damage
The explosion at the Sergeli District warehouse in Tashkent has resulted in damages estimated at UZS 14.5Bn($1,1Mn) , as reported by the government commission.
After conducting a comprehensive forensic examination, investigation, and legal proceedings, the government commission has affirmed that the full amount of damages will be recovered from the responsible party in accordance with the law.
The incident impacted 163 people:
- 150 people sustained minor injuries.
- 13 individuals suffered severe injuries.
- A 16-year-old teenager, died.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the facades, window frames, doors, and roofs of 246 private houses and 1,370 apartments within 39 multi-story buildings, accounting for the UZS 14.5Bn($1,1Mn) damage.
Contracted organizations have been assigned to address the damaged structures, and ongoing construction and repair works are in progress.
It's worth noting that 400 families in need have received food supplies, while financial aid has been provided to 100 minors.
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