Gas Explosion Engulfs Nairobi Neighborhood
A devastating gas explosion rocked Nairobi's Embakasi neighbourhood late Thursday, claiming at least three lives and injuring 280 individuals.
The incident was triggered by a gas-loaded truck that exploded, setting off a fireball that engulfed homes, warehouses, and vehicles. The catastrophe unfolded in a densely populated area, with many residents still indoors as the flames rapidly spread. Emergency services worked tirelessly to rescue and treat the wounded, with 271 people rushed to hospitals, and an additional 27 receiving on-site treatment.
Eyewitness accounts describe the horrifying scene, with loud explosions, huge fireballs, and people screaming as they fled the area. Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura clarified that the explosion originated from a truck rather than a gas plant, contradicting earlier reports. The aftermath revealed significant damage to residential buildings, businesses, and vehicles, with the shell of the truck lying on its side near the blast site. The tragedy has raised concerns about the proximity of gas-related businesses to residential areas, with residents expressing frustration over lax enforcement of safety standards.
In a grim revelation, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) disclosed that the gas plant in question had been operating illegally. Despite EPRA rejecting construction permits three times last year due to safety concerns and high population density, the facility continued its operations. The tragedy prompted calls for accountability, with Mwaura insisting that the company owners must compensate the victims and take full responsibility for the incident.
Questions about corruption and weak enforcement institutions have also emerged, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into the regulatory lapses that allowed such a disaster to occur. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by inadequate safety measures and the urgent need for stricter adherence to regulations in densely populated urban areas.
