Disaster and restoration governance of the 2014 Kaohsiung gas explosion

Although the government took quick emergency action following the Kaohsiung gas explosion of 31 July 2014, there were still thirty-two persons (including six fire-fighters) killed and more than three hundred victims wounded. Because the explosion was caused by leaking industrial underground propene pipelines, it also seriously hurt the Kaohsiung energy supply system and economic development. It was very urgent for the government to carry out post-disaster restoration for the ripped-up roads and the damaged buildings. This paper examines the problems of the above incidents, relates the experiences of the rescue and restoration to rebuild residents’ lives, and suggests an approach of integrated governance. This research provides the central and local government with some important suggestions to deliver appropriate sustainable energy policies and reduce the environmental risk.