A gas leak was discovered on Wednesday in western Moscow near the site of a recent pipeline explosion, the Russian emergencies ministry`s press service said.

The pressure in the pipeline was cut shortly after the leak was discovered on Wednesday morning. A follow-up examination will be carried out later in the day.

The gas pipeline on Ozernaya Street in west Moscow exploded early on Sunday shortly after Russia finished celebrating Victory Day, sending flames up to 300 meters into the air. Five people were treated for burns and some 14 cars were set ablaze.

The fire, acknowledged as Moscow`s largest since World War II, was put out 15 hours after it started. Welding works have already been completed at the site of the blast and normal pressure has been restored in the pipeline.
sections: Accidents