PN calls for urgent state assembly meet, fair compensation after Putra Heights blaze

Opposition pact Perikatan Nasional (PN) today urged the Selangor government to commence "an independent, detailed and transparent" probe into the gas pipeline fire that broke out in Putra Heights yesterday, injuring more than 100 and damaging nearly 200 houses in the vicinity. 

Selangor PN chairman Mohamed Azmin Ali said Petronas should also compensate all of the affected residents after assessing the losses. 

"A task force with an open line must be set up immediately to gather data and information from the victims, including on losses and injuries suffered.

"This task force should be responsible for advising Petronas on the appropriate compensation for victims for a fair and compassionate resolution," Azmin, a former Selangor menteri besar, said in a statement. 

The huge blaze which broke out on the second day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, forcing the evacuation of residents, was attributed to a leak in a Petronas gas pipe. 

The total damages to homes and vehicles, as well as expenses related to injuries, are estimated at hundreds of millions. 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim yesterday announced cash aid of RM5,000 for affected homeowners, and RM2,500 for those who suffered injuries. 

He said the cost of compensation would be jointly borne by the government and Petronas. 

"That, you don't have to worry, it's just that it might take a little bit of time," he said. 

Azmin said the incident had traumatised residents in villages and housing areas nearby. 

He said the investigation report must present recommendations and measures for regular monitoring and inspection along the gas pipeline to ensure the safety of the people.

He added that the report should be tabled and debated in the state legislative assembly. 

"As the opposition leader in the state legislative assembly, I urged the Selangor menteri besar to immediately issue a notice to the speaker to call for a special sitting, to discuss this matter of public interest – this gas pipeline fire which has injured hundreds and caused emotional distress to many."

He added that Article 10(3) allows for such a sitting to be immediately convened. 

Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari yesterday defended the contractor involved, following claims that the leak was caused by an excavator used in development works in the area. 

"Where is the machine? If it was digging and caused the explosion, I don't think it would have survived," he said, adding that the allegation was unfair.