‘Explosion’ in Bukit Batok is a Telco Manhole; Other Manholes Are Being Checked to Ensure They’re Safe

Fortunately for residents here, the only explosions that take place in the country happen in movie theatres and in the bathroom after a McSpicy or two.

Never, say, has a motorist been driving in an HDB residential area and witnessed an explosion right in front of his car.

Until now, that is. 

‘Explosion’ Occured in Bukit Batok 

Earlier this morning (24 Aug), an explosion occurred just outside the entrance of a multi-story car park (MSCP) at Block 439 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8.

A video of the incident, taken from the dashboard camera of an approaching car, was soon shared on social media.

The video starts out with what appears to be a flash of lightning. Just a few seconds later, flames shoot out of a section of the road just outside the MSCP as bricks are flung into the air.

Speaking to CNA, the Singapore Civil Defence Force said they received a call for a flash fire at Block 439 Bukit Batok West at 9:10 am today.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. There was also no fire when officers arrived.

‘Explosion’ in Bukit Batok is a Telco Manhole; Other Manholes Are Being Checked to Ensure They’re Safe

It turns out that the explosion occurred from a manhole, and one that belongs to a telco.

According to Hong Kah North SMC MP Amy Khor, investigations are currently underway to ascertain the cause of the accident.

“SCDF, together with representatives from other agencies including Netlink Trust, SP, PUB, HDB and TC were on site to investigate and render assistance. It is fortunate that no one was hurt from the incident,” Ms Khor wrote in a Facebook post this morning.

She said the explosion has “shaken” residents, and understandably so.

This is why Ms Khor has instructed various agencies to inspect other manholes in the area and ensure that they’re safe.

The MP had also gone down to the explosion site after being alerted to the incident and spoken to residents.

Explosion Left Gaping Hole in the Ground

Pictures of the aftermath of the explosion showed the gaping hole left in the ground just outside the exit of an MSCP, with bricks from the ground scattered all over the area.

Personnel from the SCDF as well as PUB and the Singapore Police Force were also seen at the site.

An SCDF hazmat vehicle was seen at the site as well.

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Featured Image: Facebook (Amy Khor)