IPOH: Investigations into the Putra Heights gas pipeline fire should be allowed to proceed without any speculation, says Nga Kor Ming (pic).
The Housing and Local Government Minister said there is no need to speculate on the contractor involved at the site where the blast occurred.
“Let’s respect the process and the investigation currently being conducted by the police. If any party is found to be at fault, they will be referred to the Attorney General’s Chambers.
“That is the due process. So leave it to the authorities to determine the actual cause,” he told reporters after attending the Jalan Medan Ipoh 2 upgrading project handover ceremony here yesterday.
He was asked to comment on calls for the authorities to reveal the identity of the contractor involved in excavation work at the site of the gas explosion on April 1.
Nga said for now, his ministry is fully focused on helping the affected residents, with efforts divided into three phases.
“The rescue phase has been completed and there were no fatalities in the incident.
“We are extremely grateful for this, considering that it happened during the festive period,” he said.
Nga said under Phase Two starting today, about 2,000 workers will be mobilised for a large-scale gotong-royong to clean up the affected area and homes involved.
“Hundreds of lorries will be deployed,” he said, adding that the Selangor government, SWCorp and National Solid Waste Management Department would be involved.
Phase Three will involve reconstruction, which would be the most challenging phase, he added.
“So far, 219 homes were affected, with 87 completely destroyed. We are currently seeking funding and have an action plan in place,” he added.
Nga said once everything is ready, an announcement would be made.
“Just give us some time. We are working around the clock on it.”
Meanwhile, Nga announced a RM2mil allocation for road paving work and installation of LED lights at Medan Ipoh with 2,000 parking bays.
“The last time the roads were paved were 15 years ago,” he added.
