indians-among-13-killed-in-qatar-s-ras-laffan-blast

At least 13 people were killed in an explosion at a facility in Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, one of the world’s most important liquefied natural gas (LNG) hubs, on Monday. Reports from the Gulf region said the victims included Indian and Pakistani nationals, although there was no official confirmation from Indian authorities.

 

QatarEnergy said investigations were underway to determine the cause of the blast. The company, however, stressed that the incident had not affected the country’s LNG exports and that operations at gas facilities and Ras Laffan Port continued normally.

 

The explosion occurred in the sprawling industrial zone that serves as the centre of Qatar’s energy industry. Visuals circulating on social media showed a massive fireball and thick smoke rising from the site.

 

The Indian Embassy in Doha expressed deep concern over the incident but stopped short of confirming any Indian fatalities. In a statement, the mission said several people had been injured and some were reported missing according to local authorities.

Also read: Many injured, missing after explosion at Qatar's Natural Gas Hub

 

“The Embassy of India, Doha expresses deep concern at the unfortunate incident that occurred at the Ras Laffan Industrial City yesterday, in which several people got injured and some are missing as per authorities,” it said.

 

The embassy said it was closely monitoring developments and remained in contact with Qatari authorities. It also wished a speedy recovery to the injured and expressed hope for the safe return of those reported missing.

 

“At this challenging and difficult time, the Embassy of India and the entire Indian community in Qatar stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Qatar,” the statement added.

 

QatarEnergy chief executive and Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said an investigation had been launched to establish the cause of the explosion. Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact location of the blast within the industrial complex or the extent of the damage.

 

The explosion reportedly rattled windows and was felt across parts of Doha, more than 70 kilometres away from Ras Laffan. The incident comes as Gulf energy producers continue efforts to restore and expand production following disruptions linked to regional tensions and conflict.