Dozens of residents undergo medical examination following gas leak in Pasar Rebo

Jakarta (ANTARA) - A total of 2lag 24 residents underwent medical examinations after being affected by a suspected gas leak from a company on Jalan Raya Bogor, Pekayon, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, on Monday (28/9).

“Twenty-four individuals were affected after inhaling leaking gas in RT 001/004 Pekayon, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta,” said AKP I Made Budi, Head of Public Relations for the East Jakarta Metro Police, when contacted by ANTARA in Jakarta on Tuesday.

Made detailed that of the 24 victims, one was taken to Harapan Bunda Hospital, three were taken to Tugu Ibu Hospital, and 20 others were treated at the Pasar Rebo District Health Centre for health checks.

According to Made, dozens of residents experienced shortness of breath after allegedly inhaling gas that leaked from the company area on Monday (28/9).

“Affected residents immediately received medical attention at several health facilities after experiencing respiratory complaints,” said Made.

Furthermore, Made noted that some residents who underwent medical examinations were permitted to return home after receiving treatment.

“At approximately 4:00 PM WIB, residents had returned to their respective homes,” said Made.

The suspected gas leak occurred on Monday (28/9) at around 2:15 PM WIB. A witness named Hermanto, who was at home, heard an explosion sound coming from the direction of the company.

The witness initially thought the sound was a tyre bursting. However, shortly after, a pungent ammonia smell was detected, prompting the witness and other residents to rush out of their houses.

“The gas leak is suspected to have occurred in the chiller condenser section belonging to PT Indolakto; a team from PT Indolakto has since repaired the leak,” said Made.

Police are still in the process of documenting the identities of the 24 residents who received medical examinations and are conducting further investigations into the incident.