Gas Explosion Donholm Estate Sparks Safety Concerns
Property of unknown value was destroyed following a gas explosion at a gas cylinder shop in Kisumu Ndogo Estate, Donholm, Nairobi County on Friday morning.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred at around 6:30 a.m., triggering a loud blast that damaged nearby residential buildings and sent panic through the neighbourhood. Residents reported hearing a strong bang followed by smoke billowing from the shop, forcing many to rush out of their homes in fear.
The timing of the explosion has raised serious concern among locals, as it happened when children were preparing to leave for school. Parents and residents expressed relief that no injuries or fatalities were reported, describing the incident as a near-tragedy.
“This could have been catastrophic. At that hour, children are usually on the road heading to school,” said one resident. “We are lucky no one was hurt.”
Residents are now calling on authorities to urgently regulate gas cylinder businesses, arguing that such operations should not be located within densely populated residential areas. They say the presence of gas shops in estates poses a constant risk to lives and property.
Emergency responders were alerted to the scene, and investigations into the cause of the explosion are expected to begin. As of now, no casualties have been confirmed, but the extent of property damage is still being assessed.
The incident has renewed debate on urban safety, business zoning, and enforcement of public safety regulations in Nairobi’s residential estates.