Housing project near LNG station sparks fears in Permas Jaya
JOHOR BARU: Permas Jaya residents have voiced their concerns over a housing project near a liquefied natural gas (LNG) metering station along Jalan Permas 2 here.
N. Mariapan, 70, a long-time resident and lawyer, said fears have grown since construction began late last month, given the site's close proximity to both the LNG station and what may be underground gas pipelines leading to Singapore.
"We hope what happened in Putra Heights does not happen here," he said, referring to the gas pipeline explosion in Selangor earlier this year.
"There are serious safety implications when development happens too close to gas infrastructure."
Mariapan said in April 2008, a loud blast followed by the smell of gas in the air caused panic among Permas Jaya residents.
"Some 5,000 residents were prepared to evacuate while the Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) squad was deployed," he said, adding that the memory remains fresh and alarming.
However, no untoward incidents were reported as it was later confirmed that the loud noise came from a controlled release of LNG gas some 34 metres from the housing estate.
Mariapan warned that any underground vibrations from construction could potentially disrupt gas flow and trigger a leak or worse.
"We urge the authorities and developers to prioritise safety. It's no use taking action after disaster strikes."
Another resident, Zuhairah Mohamad, 60, echoed the call for vigilance.
"All safety procedures must be strictly observed. We urge the authorities to treat this seriously before anything unfortunate happens."
Responding to the residents' concerns, Permas assemblyman Baharudin Mohamed said preventive measures were already in place.
"The developer has erected a temporary perimeter fence and workers' quarters. Also, no excavation is allowed within six metres of the gas pipeline without Petronas approval," he said.
Open burning and barbecuing are strictly prohibited on site, and earth berms have been built along the project's boundary as an additional safeguard, he added.
"Toolbox briefings and safety inductions are conducted to constantly remind workers of the dangers of working near gas pipelines," Baharudin said.
A toolbox briefing is a short informal safety briefing held at the beginning of a workday or shift to discuss safety procedures, incident prevention, equipment use and relevant workplace matters.
"We understand the concerns and steps have been taken to ensure there is no risk of gas leak or explosion."
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the site as the development progresses.
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