According to the BBC:
Londoners are at risk of being killed in one of the increasing number of pavement explosions in the capital, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) fears.
Figures obtained by BBC London show reported incidents of underground explosions more than tripled between 2011 and 2012.
In 2010, there were 12 underground explosions reported to the HSE.
Although that fell to eight in 2011, last year the figure jumped to 29. So far this year, there have been 12 blasts."
John Steed, principal specialist electrical inspector at the HSE, warned that a fatality could happen. Asked if he was concerned someone could die in a future explosion, he told the BBC:
"It is my concern, yes. That's why I'm having regular meetings with UK Power Networks. I'm testing them. It's their risk."