Still no explanation for Joburg explosion
Johannesburg City Manager Floyd Brink says buildings in the CBD have been assessed and declared safe, as there was no damage to the structural integrity.
This comes after structural assessments were conducted in the city following a suspected gas explosion on Wednesday evening.
At least one person was killed, and 48 others were injured after the explosion.
Twelve people are receiving treatment in various hospitals.
Brink addressed the media on the latest updates of the damage caused by the explosion on Thursday evening.
He said three potential causes were identified.
"At this stage, our preliminary investigations have presented us with three possible scenarios for the explosion. These are; the ignition of methane gas in underground stormwater systems due to sewerage ingress.
"The second possibility considered is the ignition of natural gas, mixed with air (oxygen) in underground stormwater drainage systems or service ducts. The third and last possibility is the ignition of gas from a gas pipe burst.
"At this stage, only one of the above potential causes appears to be warranted, accidental leakage of natural into the service duct reaching explosion concentration levels of 5-15% and was ignited by a source unknown at this stage. The source of gas in the service duct is unknown. Investigations in this regard will continue to try to locate the source over the next few days."
Brink added that the nearby buildings had been inspected and showed no signs of failure were detected.
"Buildings adjacent to the collapsed road have been inspected, and at this stage, no signs of failure have been detected, and the buildings are regarded structurally sound for occupation.
"We have also assessed the gas leaking into the atmosphere and have been assured by the Environmental Services and Air Quality Controllers of the city that the gas leaking into the atmosphere poses no risk to residents and as its concentration reduces rapidly in open air. However, gas leaks into subsoil cavities such as basements can be fatal."
Tankers and sanitation facilities have also been deployed.
"Johannesburg Water has already isolated water supply to the area and has deployed water tankers to support residents in the area. This will also be augmented by the deployment of mobile ablution facilities to provide for residents in the affected area,” said Brink.
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