Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A powerful explosion rocked a spa in the Bulungan area of South Jakarta on Monday night (Dec. 11, 2024), leaving seven people injured and causing significant structural damage. The blast, which destroyed a wall of the building, is believed to have been triggered by a gas leak.
The Incident
Witnesses reported smelling a strong odor of leaking gas shortly before the explosion. Despite the warning signs, no immediate action was taken to address the issue. Around 7:30 PM local time, a spark ignited the leaked gas, causing an explosion that reverberated through the neighborhood, sparking panic among residents in Bulungan area of South Jakarta
First responders, including police and firefighters, quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and assist victims. An ongoing investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the gas leak and prevent future incidents.
Chronology of Events
According to witnesses, the smell of gas permeated the spa area for some time before the blast. Employees reportedly noticed the odor but failed to take adequate measures.
Preliminary findings suggest the leak originated from an LPG cylinder used in the spa. Investigators suspect faulty equipment, such as a regulator or gas hose, as the source of the problem.
The explosion occurred when a staff member attempted to turn on a water heater. The resulting spark ignited the gas, causing a fire that quickly escalated into a massive explosion. The blast was heard several kilometers away, creating widespread alarm in the surrounding Bulungan district.
The spa’s wall was blown out, damaging a neighboring building. The seven injured individuals sustained various wounds from debris and heat exposure.
Emergency Response
Firefighters and police swiftly evacuated those trapped in the building and assessed the site for potential secondary fires. The injured victims were transported to a nearby hospital for intensive care.
Authorities cordoned off the area to ensure public safety and launched an investigation into the incident. Experts are examining the LPG cylinder and other equipment to confirm the exact cause of the leak.
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Preventative Measures
This tragic incident highlights the critical importance of gas safety protocols. Authorities are urging businesses and residents to conduct regular inspections of gas systems and promptly address any signs of leakage to prevent similar disasters.
As the investigation continues, local officials have called for stricter enforcement of safety standards in commercial establishments to ensure the well-being of the public.
(Becky)
