A team is working round the clock on a ruptured pipeline in SA’s Mid-North but around 9500 homes and businesses are still expected to be without gas for up to four more days.
Epic Energy SA, which owns the pipeline, said this morning that more than 80 per cent of the ruptured pipeline had now been excavated and exposed, with a section sent to Adelaide for technical assessment.
The damage occurred on Sunday evening and may have been caused by a small earthquake.
It has resulted in gas being cut off to 5500 homes and businesses in Port Pirie and a further 4000 in Whyalla.
Epic Energy SA chief executive officer Clive D’Cruz said that within the next 24 hours the company hoped to have a clearer understanding of the repairs required and the time it would take to get gas flows restored.
“We understand time is of the essence for those affected and are moving as quickly – and safely – as we can so gas supplies can be restored as soon as possible,” he said.
He described the excavation of the pipeline as a “delicate and methodical operation”.
“Our team of engineers, field operators, maintenance staff, welders and excavator operators have worked hard throughout the night to excavate and expose the damaged pipe and work will be continuing today.”
Replacement pipe is being transported to the site.
Gas supply to the Whyalla Hospital has been maintained, with 1200 other properties within the same grid asked to voluntarily turn off their supply to preserve that serving the hospital. AAP reports that bottled gas is also being transported to both Whyalla and Port Pirie hospitals.
Whyalla City Council mayor Jim Pollock said he understood the rupture was accidental.
“Accidents happen but five days is an extremely long time,” Pollock told ABC Radio.
Port Pirie Mayor John Rohde said the council was looking at how to help those left without cooking facilities, and that community facilities could be shared with residents to help them cope.
– with AAP
Those affected by the pipeline rupture are advised to contact the APA Group Natural Gas Emergency Hotline on 1800 898 220.
