According to foreign media reports, at about 6:40 a.m. local time on July 19, a steam pipeline explosion occurred on the Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York. 28 buildings were forced to evacuate and traffic was closed during peak hours. The explosion has caused minor injuries to five people, including a policeman.
Daniel middot Negro, head of the New York Fire Department, said: 'a high-pressure steam pipe burst near 21st and Fifth Avenue at 6:39 this morning, a 20 inch steam pipe that was installed and used in New York City in 1932. '
Four civilians and a policeman were slightly injured in the explosion, the report said. Affected by the explosion, 28 buildings were evacuated, including the 19th to 23rd streets of Sixth Avenue, which were closed down. The subway of R line and W line was forced to bypass 23rd Street, causing serious congestion in the early peak hours.
"Not only did the steam lines burst, but they also disrupted natural gas pipelines, water pipes and some electricity," Negro said. The need to repair underground equipment can cause streets in the area to close for days, a daunting task. '
Authorities said about 100 firefighters were involved in the rescue. Although the building has not been damaged, asbestos pollution needs to be checked in the nearby buildings, and the air conditioning and hot water supply systems of 27 buildings have been affected.
The report also said that the New York Fire Department plans to set up an emergency decontamination tent nearby to help residents who touch explosive pollutants near the scene of the crime.