Penang Sewer Blast: Pink Gas Suspected – IWK Update
- An underground explosion near a sewer line in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, may have been triggered by an illegal chemical discharge, according to Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) sdn Bhd.
- Following the Friday explosion near Lengkok Perindustrian Bukit minyak,a preliminary investigation revealed a pink,gaseous influent in the sewer system.
- IWK has alerted the Habitat Department and the National Water Services commission (SPAN) to help identify the source of the chemical spill.
A sewer explosion in Penang, near Bukit Mertajam, has authorities on high alert. Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) suspects an illegal chemical discharge from a nearby factory caused the blast, with a pink, gaseous substance discovered in the sewer system. The explosion, which occurred near Lengkok Perindustrian bukit Minyak, displaced a manhole cover and damaged a road culvert. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries. IWK is working with the Habitat Department and SPAN to identify the source, noting that the sewer network continues to function. News Directory 3 is following this developing story closely. Discover what’s next as investigations into the illegal discharge and damage assessment continue.
Sewer Explosion in penang Possibly Caused by Illegal Chemical Discharge
Updated June 7, 2025
An underground explosion near a sewer line in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, may have been triggered by an illegal chemical discharge, according to Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) sdn Bhd.
Following the Friday explosion near Lengkok Perindustrian Bukit minyak,a preliminary investigation revealed a pink,gaseous influent in the sewer system. IWK suspects the noxious substance came from a nearby factory.
IWK has alerted the Habitat Department and the National Water Services commission (SPAN) to help identify the source of the chemical spill. Despite the blast, the sewer network appears to be functioning normally, with no blockages or structural damage detected.
The explosion did displace a manhole cover and damage a nearby road culvert. Repair work will begin after authorities approve a CCTV inspection to assess the sewer’s internal condition. the displaced manhole cover has been temporarily secured.
John Sagun Francis, assistant director of operations for the Penang Fire and Rescue Department, confirmed that no injuries were reported.
IWK stated, “Sewer flow remains unaffected, indicating no internal obstruction or collapse at this stage, and IWK remains fully committed to assisting authorities and further investigations.”
What’s next
authorities will continue investigating the source of the illegal chemical discharge and assess the extent of the damage to the sewer system. Repairs are pending approval and further inspection.