Major blast rocks Pretoria West

A major blast at a Pretoria West paint shop forced surrounding businesses and houses to be evacuated on Monday, Rekord reports.

Bestcare spokesperson Xander Loubser said the explosion was on the corner of Court and Soutter streets at about 12.30pm.

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“We are unsure whether there are people inside the building. The fire is spreading on to other buildings and cars in the area.”

Loubser said one person was treated for smoke inhalation on scene. Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Johan Pieterse said the explosion was believed to have been started by exploding gas canisters on the site of the paint shop.

“The smoke from the fire can be seen in and around the city, and emergency services are currently on scene extinguishing the fire.

Court and Soutter streets were closed, and motorists were advised to avoid the area and to use alternative routes.

READ MORE:

https://www.citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/fire-rescue-service-rally-together-to-put-out-city-fire/

– Caxton News Service