DOHA: Twelve Indian nationals were killed and several others injured after an explosion ripped through a gas processing facility in Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City on Sunday night. A total of 13 people lost their lives in the tragedy.
According to a statement issued by Qatar’s Ministry of Interior, the blast was triggered by a “technical malfunction” during regular operations at the facility.
Confirming the casualties, the Indian Embassy in Doha posted on X on Monday: “Qatari authorities have confirmed that 12 Indian nationals have unfortunately passed away in the Ras Laffan incident yesterday night. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls.”
While the identities of the deceased are yet to be established, officials confirmed that many of those injured are also Indian nationals. However, their condition is stated to be stable.
“Qatari authorities have also confirmed that all those who got injured in the incident are in stable condition and are receiving appropriate medical treatment,” the Indian Embassy statement added, noting that it is working closely with local authorities to assist the affected families and ensure the swift repatriation of the mortal remains to India.
Addressing a press conference in Doha, Qatar’s Energy Minister Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi expressed deep grief over the incident.
“I find myself today having to do something I have always hoped will never happen, and that is to announce the tragic loss of 13 lives of our people who hold Indian and Pakistani nationalities. Sixty-six people have been reported injured and are receiving medical treatment, none of whom are in life-threatening condition,” Al Kaabi said.
The Energy Minister also clarified the nature of the blast to dispel speculation. “I would like to emphasise that this was an accident and not sabotage or hostile in nature,” he said, according to news agency AP.
Ras Laffan is Qatar’s central hub for natural gas production, employing thousands of engineers, technicians, and manual labourers. The Indian community constitutes the largest expatriate group in Qatar, with more than 830,000 Indian nationals living and working across various sectors in the country.
