03/04/2025

THURSDAY | APR 3, 2025

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Residents staying near gas pipelines living in fear

“Since last year, when they started the distribution station construction, we have been very concerned about the safety of our residents. “Apart from the fire hazard, we are also disturbed by the maintenance work being carried out at night.” He added that initially, residents were told that this would only take place during the commissioning stage, but continued nighttime activities and loud noises have left many frustrated and uneasy. He said a lack of communication has also left many feeling vulnerable and uncertain about potential risks. “The only visible pipeline marking is along the main road near Taman Mas. “What we learnt from the Putra Heights incident is that pressure on the gas pipeline likely caused a weak point to burst, leading to the fire. Considering the situation around our condo, we are very worried.” Another concern is the presence of heavy vehicles passing near the condominium to a construction site nearby, which could put additional stress on the gas pipeline and the structural integrity of the buildings. In addition, illegal dumping in the vicinity raises yet another safety issue, as the proximity of waste disposal to the pipeline could lead to unforeseen hazards. “Authorities should provide clear information about the location and construction of pipelines. To prevent incidents, regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial,” Nagarajan said. As fears grow, Koi Prima residents are urging authorities and gas pipeline operators to take immediate action and implement safety measures to prevent untoward incidents. ‘Ensure contractors adhere to safety protocols’ PETALING JAYA: Developers must oversee the work being performed by their contractors at any approved project site to ensure compliance with safety protocols, said Subang Jaya City Council councillor Mohd Tarmizi Lazim. “They should inspect all the works being carried at the location and make sure that their contractors abide by all safety rules and procedures,” said Mohd Tarmizi, who is in charge of Taman Putra Heights and Kampung Bukit Lanchong. He said there were no issues regarding the project, as it had gone through all necessary processes before it received approval and planning permission from the local authorities in 2022. “The developer is building shoplots at the site. We understand that the project has already reached 80% completion and the contractors are working on the infrastructure,” he told theSun . Kota Kemuning state assemblyman Preakas Sampunathan urged all parties to allow the authorities to complete their investigations before making any speculative comments. Meanwhile, the Academy of Professors Malaysia Science, Technology and Innovation Cluster highlighted the need to protect the “right of way” for the pipeline. “Maintaining the integrity of pipeline corridors requires ongoing public awareness, responsible land use practices and enforcement by relevant authorities.” Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Anxiety, safety concerns high following massive Putra Heights fire that affected 364 individuals from 74 families, with numerous houses and vehicles damaged

NGO coordinating efforts to help animals affected by blaze Nurhayati Ramli, a resident in Jalan Putra Harmoni is relieved that her cat was rescued from her home. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN SUBANG: Stray Animal Feeders of Malaysia (SAFM) has mobilised a coordinated effort to assist animals affected by the fire in Putra Heights. Working alongside local authorities, the Fire and Rescue Department, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and veterinary clinics near the affected area, SAFM is ensuring that animals in distress receive necessary medical attention and food. SAFM president R. Kalaivanan said although access to the restricted zone remains limited, the organisation is focusing on providing free first aid, treatment and pet food through its collaborating clinics. “We are also working with local rescuers and feeders who are prepared to foster affected animals if needed. “Every life matters, and by working together, the community can be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.” Kalaivanan said public involvement is crucial, particularly in reporting lost or injured animals, which helps SAFM track and reunite pets with their owners. He said at present, SAFM does not require financial aid or donations, but it will notify the public if additional resources are needed. However, he added that SAFM needs the public to report sightings of affected animals. This is not the first time SAFM has stepped up in disaster relief efforts. The organisation has been actively involved in flood relief operations across Malaysia, including in Taman Sri Muda, Hulu Langat, Johor, Terengganu, Kelantan and Pahang. To facilitate free first aid and treatment for affected animals, SAFM is collaborating with several veterinary clinics. Ministre’ of Pets Veterinary Clinic in Putra Heights is offering medical care and free pet food, operating from 10am to 7pm, SubangVet SS14 is providing similar services from 10.30am to 10.30pm while Putra Heights Veterinary Clinic and Faith Veterinary Clinic and Surgery are both offering care and pet food from 10am to 6pm and 10am to 6.30pm respectively. SERDANG: Individuals hurt during the gas pipeline inferno and explosions in Putra Heights are being treated at the Serdang Hospital for burns and breathing complications. The massive fire, which occurred at 8.10am on Tuesday, triggered a blaze and loud blasts that sent tremors through the surrounding area. The inferno damaged many homes and vehicles, leaving residents in shock. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Khoo Poi Lai, 72, suffered severe burns on both her legs while her husband has been warded in Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

traumatised even by the sound of thunderstorms,” said Gugan. He added that residents heard, at odd hours in February, sounds akin to gas being released, raising fears of potential gas leaks or malfunctions. Gugan said further compounding their worries is the ongoing construction of another high-rise condominium within a 200m radius of the valve station, which would increase population density and raise additional safety questions. He claimed residents had not been informed by the authorities or the property management company about the proximity of the pipeline or the safety measures in place. “The integrity of our building is now a major concern. New and existing tenants alike remain unaware of emergency protocols and inspections necessary to ensure safety. “Our priority as residents is safety. Living near a gas pipeline requires strict safety measures and regular monitoring.” Gugan urged the authorities and the gas company to ensure proper safety protocols, including regular inspections, maintenance schedules and emergency response plans. Another resident, Nagarajan Subramaniam, 43, emphasised that the gas distribution station, constructed last year, has been a major source of anxiety.

PETALING JAYA: The massive blaze in Putra Heights on Tuesday has heightened fears among Klang Valley residents, particularly those living near gas pipelines. The large fire that erupted along a Petronas gas pipeline affected 364 people from 74 families and damaged 237 houses and 225 vehicles in the residential area. The flames from the fire were exceptionally high, with the orange glow visible from several kilometres away. At Koi Prima, a high-rise condominium complex in Jalan Pinggiran Mas, Puchong, residents are worried about a similar gas pipeline located close to their homes. Residents of the complex, which consists of 1,008 residential units, now fear for their safety following the tragic incident in Putra Heights located less than 14km away. Gugan Ravi, 34, the general manager of a building maintenance company who lives in Koi Prima, expressed concern over the safety risks posed by the pipeline, which was laid last year. “The gas pipeline is about 20m to 30m from our residence, with the valve station located about 100m away,” he told theSun . “We are worried about our safety and

A Koi Prima resident taking a photo of the gas facility that is located close to the residential complex. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Injured being treated at Serdang Hospital

been transfered to a ward in the hospital. “The burns are severe. The road was so hot that even slippers melted,” Alex said. When asked about the government’s announcement of immediate financial aid for victims, he welcomed the move. “That’s good. That’s what they need right now.” As the family processes the tragedy, Alex said they are still uncertain about his sister’s discharge. “I haven’t spoken to my sister yet, but they have lost everything and will need all the help they can get.” – By DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM

the intensive care unit due to inhalation of fumes. Speaking to reporters at Serdang Hospital yesterday, Alex Khoo, 82, who was waiting to meet his sister, recounted the terrifying moments during the incident. “She wanted to give up because the road was so hot, burning her legs. But her children dragged her out.” Alex described how the fire spread rapidly, leaving the family with nothing. “They lost everything – their house, car, furniture. There was no time to pack anything.” Despite her injuries, Khoo is stable and has