Twelve Indians among 13 die in explosion in factory at Qatar
Thirteen people, including 12 Indians, died in an explosion at a factory in Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City; officials confirmed this on Monday.
In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Doha stated, "Qatari authorities have confirmed the tragic death of 12 Indian nationals in an incident that occurred in Ras Laffan on Sunday night."
Citing Qatari officials, the embassy reported that all the injured individuals are currently in stable condition and are receiving appropriate medical treatment.
More than 8 lakh Indian workers reside in Qatar, collectively earning and remitting between $1.3 billion and $1.9 billion to India annually.
The embassy added, "We are in constant contact with Qatari authorities to provide all possible assistance to the Indian nationals affected by this incident and their families. This includes ensuring arrangements for the repatriation of the mortal remains to India as soon as possible."
The Indian Embassy stated, "During this challenging and difficult time, the Indian Embassy in Doha and the entire Indian community in Qatar stand in solidarity with the government and people of Qatar. We wish the injured a speedy recovery and pray for the safety of the missing persons."
Turkey's Foreign Ministry has also expressed sorrow over the accident in Qatar.
Earlier, during a press briefing on Monday, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi confirmed that 13 people of Indian and Pakistani origin had died in the incident.
In a separate statement, Qatar's Ministry of Interior said that the incident was caused by a technical malfunction, resulting in 13 deaths and injuries to 66 people from various countries.
The Ministry stated that security agencies, along with emergency teams in Ras Laffan, took immediate action, and essential services were provided at the scene.
The injured were taken to hospitals for treatment, while search and rescue operations at the site have been completed.
Officials said that an investigation is underway to determine the precise technical causes of the accident and all related circumstances.
The Ministry of Interior also stated that no leakage was detected following the accident, nor is there any threat to public safety or the surrounding environment.
Earlier, Qatar Energy Minister had stated that an explosion and fire occurred on Sunday evening during the start of operations at the Barzan local gas supply facility.
Embassy in constant contact touch with Qatari authorities: S. Jaishankar
India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also expressed grief over the incident. Writing on X, S. Jaishankar stated, "Deeply saddened by the news of the deaths and injuries—including among Indian nationals—resulting from the explosion at Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar."
"As more details regarding the incident emerge, our embassy remains in constant contact with Qatari authorities and is striving to provide all possible assistance to the families of the Indian nationals affected by this tragedy. Our condolences go out to the victims and their families. We pray for peace for the souls of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured."