Death toll in pipeline fire now 120

By David Ohito

At least 120 people have died in a huge fire near the Kenya Pipeline Company depot off Lunga Lunga road in Nairobi’s Industrial Area.

Sinai slum fire tragedy, where more than 120 are feared dead, [PHOTO: John Muchucha/STANDARD]

A pipeline that passes through the Sinai slum is said to have burst earlier in the morning. The fire occurred after the burst pipe belonging to Kenya Pipeline channeled fuel into the slum, and later exploded in huge balls of fire. The slum is about one kilometer from the company’s headquarters in Pipeline Estate.

Nairobi Town Clerk Phillip Kisia said fire fighters had counted at least 120 bodies at the scene.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga who shed tears after visiting the scene termed the incident as tragic and said it could have been avoided.

"Its unfair for people to die like this," he said.

He added investigations have been launched into the cause of the fire.

Witnesses said the fuel had collected near the mainly wood-and-cardboard shanties, which quickly caught fire.

The Standard’s reporter said he had counted 100 bodies by around 2pm. The toll was expected to rise, according to witnesses.

Badly charred bodies littered the area, while some were piled into the Nairobi River, which passes by. They died as they tried to swim across the river to safety.

Aided by private firms, Nairobi City Council firefighters were still battling the fire. The military, regular police and Administration Police had also joined a massive rescue operation. Motorists were barred from using the roads passing through the area.

Political leaders, including several Nairobi MPs, Special Programmes Minister Esther Murugi and her Energy counterpart Kiraitu Murungi visited the scene.

So far 112 victims have been admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital while others have been taken to The Mater Hospital and other neighbouring hospitals.

All the 112 victims taken to the Kenyatta National Hospital have been admitted in one ward . The Hospital is appealing for blood donation, water, beddings and room heaters to help manage the fire victims.  

Follow live updates on the Sinai fire on KTN live at the web address:

http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/ktnlive