Elite Highway Reopens After Putra Heights Gas Fire

Traffic on the Elite Highway (Expressway Lingkaran Tengah) has resumed following a major gas pipeline explosion and fire near Putra Heights on the morning of April 1, 2025. The affected stretch between Seafield and Bandar Saujana Putra was temporarily closed for safety assessments but reopened at 1:51 PM the same day.  

Timeline of the Incident
At around 8:10 AM, a Petronas-owned underground gas pipeline exploded near Jalan Putra Harmoni, causing a massive fireball visible from several kilometers away. The flames reportedly shot up to 30 meters high, igniting panic among residents and motorists in the vicinity.

The blaze originated near residential zones close to the Elite Highway, prompting authorities to shut down part of the expressway to prevent accidents and facilitate emergency response.

Highway Closure & Reopening
PLUS Malaysia Berhad, the operator of the Elite Highway, acted swiftly by closing the affected stretch between Seafield and Bandar Saujana Putra. Entry points at USJ and Putra Heights toll plazas were also blocked off, while vehicles traveling on the highway were diverted to exit and re-enter at adjacent tolls.

Following a full inspection by engineers and highway maintenance teams, it was confirmed that the road structure remained intact. The highway was safely reopened at 1:51 PM on April 1.

Impact on Residents and Properties
The explosion caused widespread destruction in nearby housing areas, including Taman Putra Harmoni and Kampung Sungai Baru:

• 47 houses were severely damaged (37 in Taman Harmoni, 10 in Kg. Sg. Baru).
• A total of 190 homes and 159 vehicles were affected by heat, debris, or fire spread.
• 112 individuals were reported injured, with 63 hospitalized—including residents and first responders. Other sources estimate injuries up to 145.
• No fatalities have been officially recorded.

Emergency Response & Relief
Over 325 personnel from various agencies, including the Selangor Fire and Rescue Department, police, and civil defense units, were deployed. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours and successfully extinguished it by 3:45 PM.

Displaced residents were moved to temporary relief centers, where they are receiving food, shelter, and medical assistance. The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, has pledged government aid for affected families, including financial assistance and rebuilding support.

Ongoing Investigation
Petronas and the Energy Commission are leading investigations into the explosion. While initial reports suggest the rupture may have been caused by third-party construction works, a full forensic analysis is underway, with results expected within 72 hours of the incident. The pipeline has been isolated and depressurised to prevent further risks.

Advisory for Motorists and Residents
Authorities urge motorists to remain cautious when traveling through Putra Heights, as cleanup and repair efforts continue in surrounding areas. Residents are advised to avoid unauthorized excavation or digging near pipeline zones and to report any suspicious activities. PLUS will continue to monitor the situation and issue real-time traffic updates if necessary.

During this time, Motorist Malaysia is extending its support to affected vehicle owners through its app-based platform. The platform offers essential services such as free car valuation, instant insurance renewal, and a seamless process to sell your car with competitive offers from verified dealers. Users can also stay informed with real-time traffic camera updates, helping them navigate safely through affected or congested areas. All services are accessible online, making it easier for residents to manage their vehicle needs during this period of disruption.

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