The Artivist Network, Greenpeace Malaysia and RimbaWatch expressed dissatisfaction with various findings that authorities made in their investigations, claiming they missed several key issues.
These included the zoning of the pipeline and surrounding residential areas, Petronas Gas Bhd’s monitoring protocols, and whether an environmental impact assessment (EIA) report was prepared for the particular section of the gas line.
“They also did not address the environmental and public health impact of the 400 million standard cubic feet of gas released during the incident. This resulted in concentrations of an estimated 27,000 tons of carbon dioxide, equivalent to the annual emissions of over 7,000 vehicles, at the blast site.
“The sudden concentration of high-level greenhouse gases and combustion by-products is known to lead to severe respiratory issues and cognitive decline,” the NGOs said in a joint statement.
They said the proposed RCI should involve independent experts tasked with probing the root cause of the blaze, with their findings made public.
The RCI should also review existing gas line integrity measures, city plans and pipeline maps to ensure compliance with regulations, the NGOs added.
They also urged the Energy Commission to establish and enforce gas line safety standards, including buffer zones based on a potential impact radius formula.
“Ensure the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 and EIA guidelines include mandatory buffer zones and technical risk assessments for offsite populations,” the statement read.
The gas pipeline explosion on April 1 last year sent flames soaring over 30m high, with temperatures reaching 1,000°C. Although no fatalities were reported, about 150 people sought hospital treatment.
The fire left a 10m-deep crater, measuring 21m by 24m. Eighty-one houses were destroyed, 81 others partially damaged, and another 57 affected by heat and debris.
The authorities found no criminal elements, with the occupational safety and health department saying the pipe failure was caused by cyclic loading and insufficient support from the ground underneath.
Thirty-six affected residents have since filed a suit against Petronas Gas, Hong & Hong Homes Sdn Bhd, Pinterest Ventures Sdn Bhd, the Subang Jaya City Council and the government over the blaze.
They are seeking compensation for losses involving property damage, health issues and emotional distress, as well as justice and transparency from the authorities.