Major Gas Leak

VICTORIA - A major gas leak in Victoria forced the evacuation of a shopping centre, a hotel and dozens of other buildings.
Emergency crews shut down a wide area along Douglas Street fearing what could have been a catastrophic explosion.

Police and fire crews then set up a containment area that stretched the length of Mayfair Shopping Centre.

The shut-down of Douglas Street and surrounding roads caused a midday traffic jam.

The City of Victoria says the gas leak occurred after a public works crew cut some roots effecting a storm drain pipe.

A spokeswoman says the gas line appears to have been inside the pipe in amongst the roots.

A spokesman with Terasen Gas says it is normal practice when putting in a new gas line to ensure it isn't obstructed by other utilities.

The company says it will be meeting with the City of Victoria to discuss the incident.

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