In a tragic incident near Kabansora in Embakasi’s Mradi area, Nairobi, a series of explosions at a gas refilling facility has resulted in at least two fatalities and numerous injuries. The catastrophe unfolded around 11:30 PM when a lorry carrying gas cylinders exploded, triggering a massive fire that quickly engulfed the surrounding area. The intense explosions and subsequent fireball caused panic among residents, with eyewitnesses describing the scene as akin to an earthquake. The government, through spokesman Isaac Mwaura, confirmed the incident, revealing that residential houses in the vicinity were also caught in the flames.
The impact of the inferno extended beyond the immediate area, as a flying gas cylinder struck and burned down the Oriental Godown, a garment and textile business. The tragedy claimed the lives of two individuals who succumbed to their injuries at Nairobi West Hospital, while 222 others were injured and admitted to various hospitals across the city. The destruction also affected vehicles, commercial properties, and numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, prompting ongoing assessments of the full extent of the damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the government has established a command center at the scene, urging Kenyans to respect the sealed-off area to facilitate uninterrupted rescue operations.
The incident has sparked public outcry on social media, with many questioning the regulatory oversight of government bodies such as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). Concerns are raised about the establishment of a hazardous facility in close proximity to a residential area, leading to a broader discussion about safety regulations and the need for stringent measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
