Joburg explosion blame game: Egoli Gas hits back at Lesufi

"Egoli Gas remains our centre of focus,” said Lesufi at a media briefing on Thursday morning.

He said early indications were that an underground gas pipeline may have exploded, causing extensive damage to the area.  

At least one person was killed, and 48 others were injured after the explosion.

Twelve people are receiving treatment in various hospitals.

In a statement, Egoli Gas said it has done inspections of its pipeline network in the CBD, and the pipeline running on the road servitude of Bree Street had been checked and was not damaged.

"A small leak has been detected on the servitude pipeline at the corner of Bree and Eloff on a 100mm pipe. We believe the crack in the pipe has been caused by the collapse of the road,” the statement read.

The company said it would be repairing the leak.

"Egoli Gas notes that there are approximately 15 other utility lines in the same area, for example, a sewerage line that runs directly underneath the street. We would like to reiterate that our pipelines run on the servitude of the road.

"Egoli Gas observed through various platforms and by onsite members that one or two manhole covers have been blown off, and a white gas-like substance is seen coming from these openings as well as some of the exposed cracks in the road. Egoli Gas would like to mention that our piped natural gas is not visible to the human eye, and this appears to be visible warm steam.

"We will keep the public posted as we continue assessing any damage to our network and assisting and providing piped natural gas expertise to the authorities, ensuring the area is maintained safe," the company said.

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