T’puram: A gas pipeline was damaged during road construction work on Kumarapuram–Poonthi Road in the city on Tuesday, triggering a gas leak and prompting an emergency response by fire and rescue services.The incident occurred when an earthmover (JCB) engaged in excavating the roadside for the ongoing road construction project accidentally struck an underground gas pipeline which was laid as part of city gas project. The rupture resulted in gas escaping from the pipeline, causing panic among residents and commuters in the busy locality.Fire and rescue services personnel rushed to the spot and immediately initiated safety measures. Officials isolated the affected stretch by shutting valves supplying gas to the damaged section, allowing repair teams to begin restoration work. Authorities later confirmed that the leak had been successfully brought under control and there was no immediate danger to public.As a precautionary measure, residents and people in the immediate vicinity were evacuated for a brief period while emergency personnel monitored the situation. Traffic through the stretch in front of KIMS Hospital was also temporarily restricted to facilitate repair work and ensure public safety. Gas supply through the affected pipeline was suspended until the damaged section could be replaced.Fire service officials maintained a safety perimeter around the site and advised the public to avoid the area until repairs were completed. No injuries or property damage were reported in the incident.The leak was contained within a short time due to the prompt closure of the pipeline valves and coordinated efforts of the fire and rescue services, police and technical teams. Repair work continued through the afternoon to restore the damaged section and resume normal gas supply.The incident has also highlighted the need for closer coordination between infrastructure agencies and contractors undertaking road works to prevent accidental damage to underground pipelines and other utility network.In a statement, THINK Gas said ensuring the safety of the public and its employees remained its highest priority throughout the response and that it fully cooperated with the fire and rescue services and other authorities during the operation. The company has also initiated an assessment of the circumstances leading to pipeline damage.
