10,000 residents at risk from gas pipe explosions due to illegal burning

Around 10,000 residents in four villages near Kempas, Johor Bahru, face the risk of underground gas pipe explosions. The danger stems from scrap burning activities at a premise suspected of operating illegally. The gas pipeline is situated approximately 12 meters from the burning site, causing significant anxiety among locals.

Rafizal Ahmad Razi, the Chief of Kampung Sri Aman, stated that the burning has been ongoing for over a year and has intensified recently, with thick smoke emanating from the site nightly. Residents have lodged numerous complaints, citing health concerns and the immediate danger posed by the proximity to the gas pipeline. The fear of a major explosion, reminiscent of the incident in Prima Heights, Puchong, Selangor last year, is palpable.

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This activity has been going on for over a year and has become more frequent in the past week after many residents complained about thick smoke from this site starting at 7 p.m.

During a recent raid, authorities including the police and the Department of Environment (JAS) were present. JAS reportedly issued a summons to the tenant of the premise. The land is believed to be owned by a Singaporean national and leased to a local operator involved in the recycling business.

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Every day, I receive complaints from residents who are worried because it not only affects their health but also endangers the surrounding area due to the underground gas pipeline which risks exploding if the burning is not controlled.