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Storm and Flood Assistance
A 200 metre exclusion zone is currently in place around the ruptured gas pipe outside the front of The Canberra Times building on the corner of Newcastle and Pirie streets.
Occupants of The Canberra Times and nearby buildings are evacuated.
Gas contractors have starting digging down to the pipe on either side of the ruptured section to shut of the supply.
Firefighters are currently attempting to dissipate the gas into the atmosphere while the HAZMAT crew are undertaking atmospheric monitoring.
Access to Pirie Street is blocked at both entrances,Newcastle and Barrier Streets.