Update: 20 July 2023
09:18 – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said that the Department of Labour is now investigating the deadly explosion on Lillian Ngoyi (Bree) Street in Johannesburg’s CBD.
One person lost their life, and at least 48 others got injured.
Eight people are still in the hospital.
Update: 19 July 2023
23:49 – Egoli Gas, confirmed that they detected a “small leak,” which they believe was likely caused by the explosion.
See the original statement below:
Update: 19 July 2023
21:09 – Egoli Gas, a piped natural gas reticulator operating through a network of underground pipelines in the Greater Johannesburg area, stated that the explosion in Johannesburg CBD was unlikely to have been caused by a gas pipeline or leak.
See the original statement below:
19 July 2023 Original article
A suspected gas explosion has hit the Johannesburg CBD on Wednesday, 19 July 2023— causing havoc along Bree Street, and leaving nearby roads damaged with sinkholes appearing.
Authorities are urgently advising people to stay away from the area to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
According to an official notice sent to community police forum groups, the explosion appears to have originated “possibly on the gas lines underground.”
“At this time we request the public to stay clear of the area to allow emergency services to attend to the scene. We will update as soon as more information is available,” per the notice.
The cause of the blast is currently under investigation, as emergency services rush to the scene to assess the situation and provide assistance. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is also present at the CBD.
Please avoid the Joburg CBD pic.twitter.com/8J8FufC3Bm
— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) July 19, 2023
Several images and videos posted on social media show cracked tar roads and sinkholes. Furthermore, several vehicles, including taxis, were damaged and overturned.
Currently at the JHB CBB, the damage is extensive please try to avoid the area. Our emergency services are already here pic.twitter.com/MrI4eOBE50
— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) July 19, 2023
This is a developing story.
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