Negeri Sembilan: The Negeri Sembilan government, through local authorities, is actively monitoring gas pipeline routes in both residential and industrial areas to ensure public safety, according to State Executive Councillor for Local Government Development, Housing and Transport, J Arul Kumar. He confirmed that there have been no issues with gas pipeline routes in the state so far.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Arul Kumar stated that for existing areas, companies such as Petronas are requested to conduct regular inspections and patrols of the gas pipeline routes to prevent unauthorized access. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities in these areas to the authorities. Furthermore, the state government plans to hold meetings with the involved companies to gather detailed information and understand the safety measures related to the gas pipeline routes.

Additionally, Arul Kumar mentioned that there would be reviews for new housing projects in the state to ensure a safer buffer zone around pipeline routes. The gas pipelines have been in place for decades, and maintaining the integrity of these buffer zones is critical to prevent encroachments.

This initiative follows a recent incident on Tuesday where a fire broke out on a main pipeline owned by Petronas Gas Berhad in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, Selangor. The explosion resulted in a large crater and caused significant damage, displacing over 300 residents and damaging properties, including more than 300 vehicles.

As of today, 377 individuals from 98 families remain in temporary relief centers. The Ministry of Health reports that 31 injured victims are receiving treatment in public hospitals, while 33 others are in private hospitals. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported in the incident.