Gas Leak in Avcılar Prompts Emergency Response

An alarming incident unfolded in Avcılar, Istanbul, yesterday afternoon when a waste collector's attempt to remove a natural gas meter from a 7-story building led to a significant gas leak. The building, already slated for demolition after sustaining damage in an earthquake off the coast of Silivri, became the scene of potential disaster as the unauthorized act compromised the gas lines.

Residents and shopkeepers in the vicinity of Merkez Mahallesi Fatih Sokak were understandably panicked as the strong smell of gas filled the air. Fortunately, swift action was taken following their reports. İGDAŞ, Istanbul's natural gas distribution company, along with fire and emergency medical teams, were rapidly deployed to the scene. Police cordoned off the area, prioritizing public safety and preventing any potential ignition sources from nearing the leak.

The immediate threat was neutralized when İGDAŞ crews successfully shut off the main gas supply to the building. This decisive action contained the leak and allowed for the safe completion of necessary work, after which the street was reopened to traffic and pedestrians. Witness accounts, like that of shopkeeper Güngör Karaman, described seeing a woman attempting to remove the valve, which initiated the leak. From Cumhuriyet's perspective, this event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unauthorized tampering with essential utilities, especially in structures already deemed unsafe. It underscores the importance of public awareness regarding the risks associated with such actions and the critical role of rapid emergency response.

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Bir kadının vanayı sökmeye çalıştığını, o sırada kaçağın başladığını gördük. Koku yayılınca herkes panikledi, hemen ekiplere haber verdik.