Ghent – A gas leak on the R4 in Ghent at km 11.5 has prompted a road closure. Fluvius and the fire brigade are securing the site as repairs face significant challenges due to a 7 cm crack, reports 24brussels.
On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the gas leak halted traffic on the R4 near John F. Kennedy Laan during ongoing roadworks. Authorities closed the road in both directions for safety measures.
The fire brigade and grid operator Fluvius were dispatched to manage the leak and secure the area. Traffic is being redirected, with warnings issued for drivers to avoid the region until all necessary safety precautions are addressed.
“The gas leak occurred at kilometre marker 11.5 on the R4 in Ghent,”
stated Matto Langeraert of the Ghent police.
What caused the gas leak on R4 in Ghent at km 11.5?
The leak originated during soil testing works when a rod struck a medium-pressure gas pipe, leading to a 7 cm crack. Emergency teams from the fire brigade and Fluvius quickly responded to mitigate risks associated with potential fire or explosion.
Fluvius is actively engaged in repairing the gas leak, having made two attempts to seal the damaged pipe manually, both of which were unsuccessful. Fire department spokesperson Bjorn Bryon indicated that the repair process is proving difficult and may take longer than initially anticipated.
This incident recalls the 2004 gas pipeline explosion in Ghislenghien, Wallonia, which resulted from prior damage during construction works, leading to a catastrophic rupture that killed 24 and injured over 120 people.
