Investigation into gas explosion under way

Abu Dhabi Police are investigating the cause of a gas explosion that started a fire and damaged some 21 buildings and 45 cars in Abu Dhabi earlier this week. According to initial investigations, a leak in the main gas pipe caused a powerful explosion, that in turn caused a fire and destroyed the first two floors and all shops at street level of an eight-storey building. Anonymous Police say the investigation to determine the cause of the blast continues while a number of residents are still being put up in hotels. An Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) official, who asked to remain anonymous, told Gulf News the blast could have been caused by either a cylinder or a central pipe. Despite several calls to the police and civil defence, neither was willing to comment further on the potential cause of the incident.