Head of intervention, Albert Ventosa, explained that efforts are underway to seal three of the four points of the pipe feeding the leak. The goal is for the flame to extinguish itself once the gas supply is completely cut off. Teams have opted to cool the flame to avoid greater risks associated with direct extinguishment.
Deputy Mayor for Security, Albert Batlle, confirmed that the eight injured are recovering favorably. Ventosa noted that the fourth and final pipe presents greater complexity for intervention, requiring the insertion of an obturator balloon. Once this operation is complete, the flame is expected to stop.
Despite the potential extinguishment of the flame, access to the area may remain restricted until the stability and safety of the machinery and surroundings are verified. Throughout the night, water monitors were used to control thermal radiation and protect nearby homes.
The causes of the leak and explosion will be investigated later, with responsibility falling to the Department of Territory and the construction company. Batlle highlighted the support provided to affected residents and described the impact on residential activity as "very limited".
Batlle acknowledged the inconvenience caused to residents and businesses and stressed the need to review protocols after similar incidents, mentioning other events in Sant Gervasi and Vallbona, carried out by other administrations. The City Council commits to demanding explanations and accountability.
As a consequence of the incident, businesses within the security perimeter remain closed and pedestrian access is restricted. The vice-president of Sants Establiments Units is hopeful for a return to normality before tomorrow, when affected businesses are expected to reopen.
