THE Selangor government has formed an independent committee to launch a thorough review of the April 1 Putra Heights gas pipeline explosion in Subang Jaya.
Eight professionals—including academics, technical consultants, and industry experts—have been appointed to investigate the cause of the accident, assess regulatory compliance, and recommend measures to prevent future recurrences.
Selangor youth, sports and entrepreneurship committee chairman Mohd Najwan Halimi said the committee was expected to produce a full report within two months to be presented to the state government.
“We are not looking to point fingers at anyone. Our aim is to identify ways to ensure similar incidents do not recur.
“The state government will assist the committee by providing access to information from agencies,” he said during a press briefing on Monday (Sept 29) to launch the committee at the Selangor state secretariat building in Shah Alam.
Committee members were reviewed and approved during the state executive council meeting earlier this month, he noted.
Elaborating, Mohd Najwan said the committee was formed following calls among Opposition assemblymen for a transparent probe into the incident.
“We value their feedback and hope reports by the committee will give closure to all parties involved,” he added.
The explosion on April 1 destroyed 81 homes, leaving another 81 partially destroyed and 57 badly damaged.
A total of 365 vehicles were also damaged, including 275 cars and 56 motorcycles.
According to media reports, the inferno was triggered due to stress on the pipeline resulting from soft soil beneath the structure.
Police ruled out elements of negligence or sabotage.
Separately, Mohd Najwan said local councils in Selangor had been ordered to step up precautions in anticipation of the monsoon season.
This included maintaining retention ponds and drains, as well as ensuring bunds and water pumps were in good condition.
