Gas Explosion in Port Harcourt Injures Pregnant Woman, Children, and 18 Others
Gas Explosion in Port Harcourt Injures Pregnant Woman, Children, and 18 Others
A devastating gas explosion on Saturday afternoon in the Orazi area of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, left about 20 people, including a pregnant woman and four children, critically injured.
The incident occurred near the densely populated “Big Tree” area when a gas cylinder being repaired by a technician at a refilling shop exploded. The blast triggered a chain reaction, igniting multiple cylinders and causing a massive fire that affected nearby buildings, forcing occupants to flee.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion caused panic in the neighborhood, with several passers-by and residents suffering severe burns. The victims were rushed to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital for treatment.
A relative of two victims shared the ordeal, stating:
“I was just called in the evening about the incident because my sister-in-law and her husband are involved. When my wife picked the call, her countenance changed immediately.
“So I asked what happened. She said it was a gas explosion and that her sister is at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. I lost my appetite and immediately drove to the hospital. I know how Orazi is; there are many shops scattered all over just for people to survive.”
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Another source confirmed that a pregnant woman was among the injured, adding:
“It caused a huge fire, burning houses too. About 20 people were burnt, but no death. Let the government come to their aid because this is the beginning of the year,” he pleaded.
The explosion has highlighted the dangers of improper handling and maintenance of gas cylinders, especially in densely populated areas. Residents are calling on the government to assist the victims and enforce stricter safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
