Dangerous chemicals have been found in water samples taken from the site of an underground fire in the Karaki Karachi Creek region, according to a preliminary report by Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL).
The fire, on March 29 during a 1,200 -foot bore drilling operation, has not yet been extinguished. Experts suspect that the fire was caused by the accidental liberation of biogenic methane, triggered by disorders of the underground plate.
The initial chemical analysis detected high levels of benzene, toluene and tetrachlorethylene, reported Express News.
Tetrachlorethylene was measured at 33 micrograms per liter, six times the safe limit of 5 micrograms. Benzene was recorded at 19 micrograms per liter, while toluene reached 15 micrograms, both in the triple of the prescribed thresholds.
A slightly increased amount of o -xlene was also present in the sample, although in a relatively marginal excess.
Despite these results, the concentration of hydrocarbons has proven to be located within acceptable limits, not suggesting infiltration of oil or immediate gas in water.
Experts have warned that these chemicals are both toxic and potentially flammable, warning that the situation could present long -term risks for nearby residents.
No firefighter units is currently deployed on the scene, and no foam technique is used to remove the fire. The officials said that the district administration had sealed the affected area and monitored the fire, which would have increased in volume from 5% to 10% since last week.
The Sindh Ministry of Energy did not publish any statement on the issue. Meanwhile, SUTHERN GAS COMPANY confirmed that none of its facilities was located near the fire zone.
