PETALING JAYA: Repair works on the damaged underground gas pipeline in Putra Heights, which burst on April 1, are being carried out in two phases with strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards, says the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
In a statement on Tuesday (July 1), it said that Phase One involves installing a temporary 210-metre gas pipeline to replace the damaged section.
"To enhance safety, ground reinforcement is carried out at the site using a bridge foundation support structure measuring approximately eight metres by 100 metres to provide greater stability to the pipeline.
"Extensive safety has been conducted, including Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) on welding joints and a 24-hour pressure test.
"The results, verified by DOSH and an independent third party, confirmed there were no leaks or pressure drops," said DOSH.
It also said that the temporary pipeline was scheduled to resume operation on July 1.
For Phase Two, it stated that works would involve the permanent replacement of three gas pipelines, each approximately 200 metres in length.
"These will be laid on reinforced concrete slab structures to ensure a safer and more durable setup.
"Engineering design for this phase is currently underway, with operations expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026," it said.
DOSH stated that all works would be carried out in full compliance with internationally recognised technical codes and standards, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers – Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems (ASME B31.8).
"The appointed contractor is registered with DOSH and meets stringent regulatory requirements, including compliance with welding procedures and welder qualifications.
"Various geotechnical assessments such as soil mapping, subsoil and bedrock studies, and ground movement monitoring have been undertaken to ensure long-term site stability and safety," said DOSH.
It added that PETRONAS has been instructed to provide real-time monitoring access to the pipeline’s isolation valve system, allowing for immediate shutdown in the event of an emergency
On April 1, a gas pipeline fire occurred at Putra Heights, with flames reaching heights of over 30 meters and temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. It took nearly eight hours to fully extinguish the fire.
The incident resulted in the total destruction of 81 homes, all suffering structural damage of over 40%. Additionally, 81 homes experienced partial damage, while another 57 homes were affected but did not burn. Fortunately, 218 homes remained unaffected by the fire.
