Ganshoren (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Residents of Ganshoren in Brussels experienced a gas leak today while workers attempted to close down another gas leak in the area. The evacuation of both the Basilix shopping centre and supermarket lasted for some time until workers stabilised the situation.
Construction site prep work triggered a gas leak inside the Ganshoren section of Brussels early in the morning. The leak caused both the Basilix shopping centre and Delhaize supermarket to require temporary evacuation. Brussels fire brigade, as well as grid operator Sibelga and local police, joined authorities in rapid response to the situation. The leak site received proper repairs, after which all impacted businesses returned to normal operations.
“We set up a safety zone of 50 meters around the perimeter, and the Basilix shopping centre and a Delhaize supermarket were evacuated,”
Says fire department spokesman Walter Derieuw.
“Residents were asked to keep windows and doors closed. The businesses have since been able to reopen their doors.”
What led to the gas leak incident in Ganshoren?
The Ganshoren district of Brussels experienced a gas leak as crew members executed site preparation for new construction at Maria Van Hongarijelaan. The construction contractor repaired an existing gas leak, which will receive permanent solutions next week. Safety officials ordered the evacuation of both Basilix shopping centre and Delhaize supermarket when this incident happened. Emergency teams consisting of Brussels fire brigade personnel alongside Sibelga grid operator staff and local police members created a safety perimeter spanning 50 meters and instructed everyone to keep their doors and windows sealed. According to fire department spokesman Walter Derieuw, the affected businesses resumed operations. The leak repair operation was successful, but underground gas melding with dust particles resulted in strong odors, which required a brush truck to clean up the area.
