Vox pop: Locals weigh in on the Joburg CBD explosion
Some parts of Joburg CBD collapsed, the cause of this is still unknown at this stage as officials are still investigating the matter. Emergency services evacuated people due to gas risk. Locals share their opinion on what they think about this matter.
Boitumelo Kekana
Witness Mathe: I think it was a natural thing, I don’t know the main cause of it, but checking if the surrounding areas and my loved ones are okay is the first thing I will do. Yes, they responded in a manner that assured that people's safety comes first.
In the middle of rush hour on July 19, a mysterious explosion tore through the heart of Johannesburg, leaving the city’s people still in shock following the Bree Street underground explosion.
Panyaza Lesufi, the premier of Gauteng, stated that the “centre of focus” in the investigation into the explosion’s origin was Egoli Gas.
However, the oil and gas corporation claimed that it was “unlikely that the explosion was caused by a gas pipeline or leak”.
Locals share their opinion on what they think about the understanding of gas explosions and what might have caused it…
Lesego Makhafola : I think it was caused by a gas pipe. I really don’t know what I would do, but if I would still be alive, I will ensure that everyone around me is safe and called officials to attend to the scene. I think the city responded well because emergency services arrived at the scene on time.Lehlogonolo Kekana: I don’t know what caused it. I don’t want to pinpoint anything on anyone until authorities find the cause of it. I would ensure that everyone around that area is fine, if not, call the authorities. Yes, they responded very well as they did emergency protocols before briefing the media.Khomotso Mogano: I think an underground explosion caused this, and only the right people can investigate further. I will act by activating emergency protocols and check if any other area is affected. The city responded in a an excellent manner by ensuring the public is safe.
