Hsinchu Gas Explosion Leaves 2 Dead, 2 Injured; Compensation Questions Arise Over Unregulated Gas Storage

A gas explosion rocked Hsinchu City early Monday, killing two people, injuring two others, and forcing the displacement of 18 residents from eight households. The incident has raised questions about gas storage regulations and insurance requirements for businesses.

Authorities confirmed that the affected restaurant's liquefied petroleum gas storage, totaling 76 kilograms, did not meet the 80-kilogram threshold that mandates government oversight under current fire safety laws. Consequently, the establishment was not subject to mandatory public liability insurance.

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The city government has tasked the Urban Development Bureau to promptly assess the structural safety of the buildings, and assist affected households in understanding subsequent insurance claims, property loss determination, and related rights protection.

Mayor Kao Hung-an stated that the city government is actively addressing the aftermath. Beyond assessing the structural integrity of the buildings affected by the blast, including those in the rear that sustained damage, officials are coordinating with social welfare departments to arrange temporary housing and provide emergency assistance. The city plans to evaluate the structural safety of the affected buildings promptly.

Kao added that the city government is considering using disaster preparedness funds to cover immediate repair costs for residents whose homes are deemed structurally sound. Subsequently, the city will pursue legal avenues to seek compensation from responsible parties, ensuring that affected residents do not bear the financial burden alone. The exact cause of the explosion and liability remain under investigation by fire department officials, with CPC Corporation assisting in gas leak checks.

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For buildings whose structural safety is confirmed not to be affected after professional assessment, the city government is considering using disaster preparedness funds to advance necessary repair costs, helping residents resume normal life as soon as possible; the city government will subsequently pursue legal procedures to claim compensation on behalf of the victims, ensuring that affected citizens do not bear the losses alone.