Malaysia’s Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) announced Tuesday that the first phase of repair work on the underground gas pipeline that burst on April 1 in Putra Heights is now operational.

The initial phase focused on installing a temporary 210-meter gas pipeline, with the second phase expected to cover the remaining damaged pipelines. 

According to the authorities, the repair work on the Petronas-owned pipeline is proceeding according to the planned two-phase approach, with authorities emphasizing strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory standards. 

DOSH confirmed that extensive safety measures have been implemented, including ground reinforcement using an eight-meter by 100-meter bridge foundation support structure for enhanced stability. 

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) on welding joints and a 24-hour pressure test were also conducted. "The results, verified by DOSH and an independent third party, confirmed there were no leaks or pressure drops," DOSH stated.

Phase II will involve the permanent replacement of three gas pipelines, each approximately 200 meters long, which will be laid on reinforced concrete slab structures for a more durable setup. Engineering design for this phase is underway to ensure operations resume in the third quarter of 2026.

All work is being carried out in full compliance with international technical codes and standards, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers – Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems (ASME B31.8). 

The appointed contractor is registered with DOSH and meets stringent regulatory requirements. Geotechnical assessments, such as soil mapping and ground movement monitoring, have been performed to ensure long-term site stability.

DOSH also instructed PETRONAS to provide real-time monitoring access to the pipeline’s isolation valve system for immediate shutdown during an emergency. 

The April 1 pipeline incident saw flames reaching over 30 meters and temperatures exceeding 1,000°C, taking nearly eight hours to extinguish. The fire destroyed 81 homes, leaving more than 150 people injured and over $40 million in damages.