Ten people were injured Tuesday morning after an explosion rocked a construction site near Kasai Station in Tokyo’s Edogawa Ward. The blast occurred in a residential neighborhood as workers were driving piles for a new condominium building.
Tokyo police suspect the explosion may have been caused by a damaged underground gas pipe. Multiple explosions followed the initial blast, prompting authorities to urge residents to evacuate the area.
Video footage captured thick black smoke rising from a construction vehicle. More than 30 fire engines were dispatched to the scene, and the fire was largely contained within 90 minutes.
The injured — all suffering from ear and throat pain — include construction workers and local residents ranging in age from their 20s to 70s. None of the injuries are considered life-threatening.
Witnesses described the incident as terrifying. A man in his 60s reported shattered windows and said he heard at least five blasts. Two nearby students recalled a deafening roar during class, initially mistaking it for collapsed machinery. A local resident in his 30s said the blast was so strong it knocked his air conditioner off the wall.
Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the explosion and assessing the extent of damage to nearby properties.
FAQ:
Q1: Were there any fatalities in the explosion near Kasai Station?
A: No. Ten people were injured, but none of the injuries are life-threatening.
Q2: What caused the explosion?
A: Police believe a gas pipe may have been damaged during pile-driving work at the construction site, triggering the explosion.
Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250527_11/