PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali has called for a special session at the Selangor state assembly and an independent investigation into the Putra Heights gas pipeline incident.
The Selangor Opposition chief said that Perikatan Nasional considered the special session necessary, as there is a possibility that the disaster stemmed from negligence and failure of the authorities to ensure safety of the Selangor people.
“Selangor Perikatan views this incident with grave concern. Indeed, this disaster is even more alarming if it stems from negligence and failure on the part of the responsible authorities to ensure quality development and safety for the people of Selangor.
“This incident raises serious questions about compliance and enforcement of safety standards, particularly at construction sites. The state government must review all procedures and approval methods for development projects located near gas pipeline routes in Selangor.
“Without prejudice to any party currently conducting investigations, Selangor Perikatan Nasional demands that the Selangor state government take responsibility to ensure an independent, detailed, and transparent investigation is conducted to address all questions surrounding this incident,” said Azmin in a statement on Wednesday (April 2).
He said that the investigation report must provide recommendations and monitoring measures, including regular inspections along the gas pipeline route, to guarantee public safety, particularly for residents in nearby areas.
“This report must be presented and debated in the Selangor state assembly.
“Therefore, as the leader of the Opposition in the Selangor state assembly, I urge the Mentri Besar of Selangor to immediately issue a notice to the state Speaker to convene a Special Assembly Session to discuss this public interest matter—the gas pipeline fire incident that has injured hundreds of people and caused significant emotional distress.
“This Special Session must be convened immediately in accordance with Article 10(3) of the Selangor State Assembly Standing Orders.
“A task force with an open communication line must be established immediately to collect data and information on the victims, including details of their losses and injuries.
“We express sympathy and extend condolences to all 112 victims who were injured and to the families affected and traumatised by the strong explosion and tremors felt in several villages and residential areas surrounding the blast site.
“For families who have lost their homes and are facing high recovery costs, we urge the Federal Government and the Selangor state government to provide all forms of assistance swiftly and effectively until they can regain stability in their lives.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all members of the emergency response teams, including firefighters, police officers, and healthcare personnel, who have worked tirelessly during this festive season to carry out rescue and firefighting operations,” said Azmin.
On Tuesday (April 1), a gas pipeline inferno broke out on Jalan Putra Harmoni, Putra Heights in Subang Jaya, sending shockwaves through the surrounding community.
As of Wednesday (April 2), a total of 111 victims are still receiving treatment at hospitals, with 13 of them in critical condition (red zone).
Earlier, the Fire and Rescue Services Department also confirmed that 190 houses, 148 cars and 11 motorcycles were damaged in the fire.
