A mere three days following the explosion that shook Embakasi, residents find themselves evacuating the area once more due to concerns surrounding potential new gas leaks.
Reports of the fresh gas leak began circulating on the morning of Monday, February 5, compelling individuals to seek refuge in nearby areas.
Despite reassurances from the Nairobi County Government regarding the successful containment of the previous situation, residents remain wary.
Nairobi Disaster Management Chief Officer Bramwel Simiyu explained, “It is just precautionary; we have evacuated them as we invited the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to identify whether there is a threat.”
Following the gas explosion on Thursday night, February 1, 2024, claiming three lives and injuring over 220 individuals, there have been no reports of new fires. Simiyu assured the public that emergency services are on standby, emphasizing, “So far, there is no reason for alarm.”
As of February 5, six people have succumbed to injuries sustained during the initial explosion, and over 300 others are hospitalized.
The Office of Government Spokesperson provided an update, stating, “The injured patients are receiving medical care at our Level 6 hospitals at the Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital and the Kenyatta National Hospital.”
President William Ruto has ordered the arrest and prosecution of anyone found responsible for breaking the law or neglecting duty, leading to the explosion. The watchman guarding the property where the explosion occurred has already been apprehended.
Furthermore, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) suspended four officials on Saturday, February 3, stating, “The Board further requests the relevant government agencies to commence an immediate investigation.”
