"We stand in solidarity": India expresses deep concern over explosion at Qatar's Ras Laffan LNG facility
Doha, June 22
The Indian Embassy in Doha has expressed "deep concern" regarding the explosion that struck Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City on Sunday evening, affirming that the Indian community stands in solidarity with the people and government of the Gulf nation during this crisis.
"At this challenging and difficult time, the Embassy of India and the entire Indian community in Qatar stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Qatar. We wish for the speedy recovery of those injured and hope and pray for the safety of those missing," the mission stated in a message shared on X.
To support those affected, the embassy has provided emergency contact numbers at +974-55647502 and +974-55384683, along with a dedicated support email, cons.doha@mea.gov.in.
The incident occurred at the Barzan local gas supply facility during the start-up of operations, according to the state-run firm QatarEnergy.
The resulting explosion and fire prompted an immediate mobilisation of emergency response teams, which have since managed to contain the blaze. While QatarEnergy noted that the fire is now under control, officials have not yet detailed the extent of the damage to the facility, which is vital for Qatar's domestic gas supply and power generation.
Qatar's Ministry of Interior reported that at least 54 people sustained injuries in the blast, while 18 individuals remain unaccounted for.
Authorities have characterised the explosion as a "technical accident" and provided assurances that no hazardous leaks are threatening public safety.
In response to the emergency, the Qatari International Search and Rescue Group, in coordination with civil defence units, has launched an intensive operation to locate the missing persons.
While rescue and recovery efforts continued through the night, officials have not yet released information regarding the nationalities or identities of the victims.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the precise cause of the technical malfunction.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see our embassy acting swiftly and providing emergency contacts. Many Indian workers are employed in Qatar's energy sector, so this reassurance matters. Let's hope no Indians are among the missing.
"Technical accident" is a vague term - I wish they'd share more details. But I understand investigations take time. 54 injured and 18 missing is serious. India's solidarity message is appropriate, but I hope we also quietly check on our own citizens working there.
Ras Laffan is massive - it supplies gas to many countries including India. Any disruption could affect global energy markets. But my main concern is for the workers and their families. Sad day for Qatar and all of us who depend on this facility.
As someone who works in oil and gas, start-up operations are always high-risk. Glad the fire is contained but 18 missing is alarming. Hoping for a thorough investigation and better safety protocols worldwide for such critical infrastructure.
India's quick response shows our strong ties with Qatar. But I wish the article mentioned if any Indians were affected. We have a large diaspora there. Still, praying for all victims - nationalities don't matter when lives are at stake.
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