Kenyans have raised concern over the location of the Embakiasi gas facility which exploded and caused mass injuries, leaving two others dead.
In particular, a section of Kenyans wondered why the facility was operating near a densely populated residential area.
Some residents noted that they had raised concerns over the location of the gas facility with relevant government agencies including the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), which were yet to be addressed.
For instance, real estate specialist, Boss Yator, revealed that he relocated from the area in fear of a looming catastrophe.
"This was next to my place in Nyayo and let me tell you, I just woke up to realise I escaped death last night but unfortunately my friend didn't.
"I remember one evening we were watching with him Herman Manyora's daily clips. That night we had a very long conversation with him on the danger that this gas plant posed to the community and eventually I told I was moving out," he stated.
He also alleged that they frequently detected the scent of leaking gas and raised concerns with the neighbours over an impending disaster.
"You can imagine the last two months I lived in that house, I didn't step onto my balcony or even open the windows of my house. I couldn’t handle the smell of the gas anymore." Yator stated.
Other Kenyans also wondered whether the company performed regular drills in the area and whether the residents were given guidelines to follow in case of a fire breakout.
"Preliminary investigations into the incident have revealed that the fire was caused by a lorry that was ferrying gas. After exploding the gas spread out to neighbouring companies and residential homes. A flying gas cylinder hit Oriental Godown, burning down the said godown which deals with garments & textiles.
"Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses. Sadly, residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night," Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura reported.
On his part, Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai called for disciplinary action against county government officials who authorised the company to operate in the area.
The death toll currently stands at two, with over 220 people admitted to various hospitals across the county.
