An underground gas mixture explosion occurred on Bukhar Zhyrau Boulevard in Almaty. The incident happened during gas pipeline pressure testing work. As a result, the asphalt was damaged, an SUV was overturned, and another car was affected.
According to Bes.media, a nearby eyewitness reported that the explosion happened suddenly.
"I was driving my car when the gas exploded. It flipped the 'Pradik' (Toyota Land Cruiser Prado). A load of stones hit my car, leaving dents and scratches," says the video's author.
The footage shows a large crater in the roadway, an overturned SUV, and scattered debris of asphalt and stones.
The gas supply company JSC 'QazaqGaz Aimaq' commented on the incident.
"During pressure testing work on a newly built underground medium-pressure gas pipeline, carried out by the contractor LLP 'SantechKomplektGroup', an air mixture release occurred. The incident resulted in damage to the road surface, a tree, and a car. <…> The incident area has been cordoned off; there is no threat to the public. There are no casualties," the statement said.
The company noted that an inspection of the gas pipeline is underway at the scene and the causes of the incident are being established.
Meanwhile, Zakon.kz, citing the press service of the Almaty Health Department, reports that two people were injured in the explosion and were taken to the Central City Clinical Hospital.
"After all necessary examinations, they were diagnosed with soft tissue bruises. The patients' condition is stable, and they do not require hospitalisation," the statement said.
After being examined, the victims were sent for outpatient treatment.