Sri Lanka, April 1 -- At least 63 people were hospitalized in Malaysia on Tuesday following a major fire at a gas pipeline operated by state energy firm Petronas, authorities confirmed. Efforts are underway to control the blaze and evacuate affected residents.

The fire broke out in the town of Puchong, Selangor, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Those hospitalized suffered burns, respiratory issues, and other injuries, officials said.

Petronas stated that the affected pipeline had been isolated, while the fire department confirmed that the company had closed the valve on the 500-meter pipeline. The fire impacted 49 houses in the area.

Eyewitness footage showed a massive blaze with towering flames and thick smoke. By early afternoon, th...