At least 63 people were hospitalized in Malaysia on Tuesday following a massive fire at a gas pipeline operated by state energy firm Petronas. Authorities worked urgently to contain the blaze and evacuate nearby residents.
The fire erupted on Tuesday morning in Puchong, Selangor, near the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Those hospitalized suffered burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries, according to officials.
Petronas confirmed the pipeline had been isolated, while fire department teams shut off the valve on the 500-meter (1,640-foot) long pipeline. Authorities reported 49 homes in the area were impacted by the incident.
Images shared on social media showed a towering orange blaze and a thick plume of smoke engulfing the horizon. A Reuters journalist positioned 5 km (3 miles) from the fire observed the flames subsiding by early afternoon, though smoke continued to billow.
Emergency responders quickly sealed off the area, with ambulances rushing to the scene. Though no fatalities were reported, the extent of injuries and property damage remains unclear. Earlier reports mentioned residents trapped in their homes.
Petronas stated it was collaborating closely with authorities to ensure the safety of the local community, safeguard the environment, and maintain gas supply security.
The Malaysian government established relief centers at two local mosques to support affected residents, as reported by Bernama.
