PETALING JAYA: A pink, gaseous influent is potentially the cause of the recent underground explosion near a sewer line in Penang that shook the public, says Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd.
The national sewerage company said the influent was uncovered in the sewer system after a preliminary investigation conducted near Lengkok Perindustrian Bukit Minyak at Bukit Mertajam where the explosion occurred on Friday (June 6).
“The noxious influent is indicative of an illegal chemical discharge from a nearby factory.
“IWK has notified the Environment Department as well as the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) for assistance in identifying the source of the chemical spill into the sewer system,” it said in a press release on Saturday (June 7).
IWK added that the sewer network has been found to be functioning normally with no observed blockages or structural defects despite the explosion.
However, it said a manhole cover was displaced due to the blast and a nearby road culvert also sustained damage.
It said that repair works would be carried out after approval is obtained from the relevant authorities to further assess the internal condition of the sewer through a CCTV inspection.
It added that the displaced manhole has also been temporarily secured with a cover.
IWK also confirmed no injuries were reported, according to Penang Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis.
“Sewer flow remains unaffected, indicating no internal obstruction or collapse at this stage and IWK remains fully committed to assisting authorities and further investigations,” it said.
