Gas exploration planned as PPL prepares to put out Korangi blaze

The Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) is set to initiate the process to contain and extinguish a mysterious huge fire that erupted last month during drilling for a borehole in Korangi Creek near an oil refinery after a report of the chemical analysis of groundwater and soil samples shows the presence of gases like benzene and toluene and minerals like iron and magnesium in much higher concentration under the ground. Korangi deputy commissioner Masood Bhutto confirmed that experts concerned had submitted their report of the Korangi Creek fire incident. He told Dawn the report showed presence of ‘heavy metals’ and the presence of gases like benzene in large quantities. Regarding future course of action after the experts’ report, the DC said the PPL would initiate the process of containing the fire with help of experts.