Twelve people have been treated in hospital as a precautionary measure after a carbon monoxide leak in Derry.
Homes and businesses were evacuated along Spencer Road, one of the main thoroughfares in Derry's Waterside shortly before lunch time yesterday. Fire crews were called to the scene after a number of people reported smelling gas. An investigation subsequently fond that an underground electrical cable fire had released deadly carbon monoxide fumes into the street above.
While colourless and odourless, carbon monoxide is highly poisonous. Exposure to the gas can be fatal.
A full emergency operation was launched with Derry city council making the city's Foyle Arena available for residents and workers evacuated during the alert. Spencer Road remained closed off throughout the afternoon causing major traffic disruption through the Waterside area.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service confirmed that seven people were taken to Altnagelvin hospital as a precautionary measure after complaining of nausea and headaches. A further five people made their way to the hospital of their accord.
A spokesman for the Fire Service advised people to avoid the area until the all clear was given.
He said: "Three appliances from Crescent Link fire station are in attendance with partner agencies at the scene."
Fire officers wearing breathing apparatus searched buildings surrounding the site of the gas leak for possible casualties.
Northern Ireland Electricity confirmed its officials also attended the scene.
A spokesman said NIE staff were working to repair a fault in an underground electricity cable. A number of properties were also left without power.
The prompt action by emergency services has been praised by SDLP councillor, Martin Reilly, who described the incident as "serous and worrying".
"This disruption was not just contained to immediate premises but also neighbouring businesses. I therefore hope the cause of this leak can be established so that this busy street for our city can re-open soon," he said.
