Probe into the Cause of Putra Heights Gas Pipeline Fire Delayed & Aid Increased
A technical investigation into the Putra Heights gas pipeline fire that caused destruction worth $14.5 million (RM65.4 million) will be delayed until after April 15, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said Monday.
Ground stabilization efforts, which began Monday evening, must be completed before a thorough probe can commence.
"The technical probe will only begin after April 15, as the process of strengthening and stabilizing the ground will only begin today evening," Amirudin told reporters at the Selangor State Secretary building.
"After April 14 or 15, the technical investigation team will evaluate the cause of the incident."Police reports have provided an initial understanding of the incident, but authorities plan to examine surrounding factors, he said.
The Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) requires approximately 10 days for ground stabilization before beginning its investigation, police said Sunday.
Petronas will provide additional financial assistance to affected homeowners, with RM5,000 ($1115) for total loss properties and RM2,500 ($557) for partially damaged homes.
This supplements the aid earlier announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, bringing the total assistance to RM10,000 ($2231) and RM5,000 ($1115), respectively. Amirudin said that by Sunday evening, 613 households out of 437 houses had registered for assistance, indicating that some houses had rental units. The state government began distributing the first round of aid on Monday.
During a site visit last Tuesday, Anwar Ibrahim previously announced RM5,000 for completely destroyed homes and RM2,500 ($557) for partially damaged homes. The state government will also provide RM2,000 ($446) per month for six months to cover rental costs for victims, depending on the duration of home repairs.
This decision came after residents voiced concerns about temporary housing in Kota Warisan, Sepang, which they deemed too far from their residences. The total state government aid amounts to RM7.35 million ($1.64 million).