Four people were injured when a transformer exploded at a building in New Doornfontein in Johannesburg this morning.

The explosion also allegedly caused the collapse of a room and adjoining boundary wall.

Xolilie Khumalo, the spokesperson for Joburg Emergency Management Services, says emergency services responded to a reported transformer explosion at the intersection of Lower Railway Road and Staib Street.

Watch: Transformer blast in Joburg CBD. Video: Supplied/Joburg Emergency Management Services

“Firefighting operations were initiated immediately upon arrival… the fire has since been extinguished. The transformer was housed within a small utility storage room. The explosion allegedly caused the collapse of a room and adjoining boundary wall,” says Khumalo.

She adds that the building is seemingly student accommodation.

“All residents in the immediate vicinity have been evacuated to a nearby building, and so far, everyone has been accounted for. Three individuals sustained injuries during the incident and were transported by Gauteng Provincial Government ambulance services to nearby hospitals.”

In an interview with SABC, EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said four security officials and a student were injured.

Khumalo says the matter has been handed over to Joburg City Power for management investigation and remediation.

“Emergency services remain on site, conducting operational assessments and ensuring site safety. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined.”

No further information was available at the time of publishing.

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