Qatar Factory Explosion Kills 13 and Injures 66, India Coordinates Relief for Victims' Families

At least 13 people were killed, including 12 Indian nationals , in a major explosion and fire at a gas facility in Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City , prompting diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Doha and raising concerns over industrial safety at one of the Gulf nation's key energy hubs.

The accident occurred on Sunday evening during the start-up of operations at the Barzan local gas supply facility , operated within the Ras Laffan industrial complex. According to Qatari authorities, the explosion was triggered by a technical malfunction during operational procedures.

The Indian Embassy in Doha confirmed that 12 Indian citizens lost their lives in the incident. The embassy said it is working closely with Qatari authorities to provide assistance to affected families and to facilitate the early repatriation of the mortal remains. It also noted that all injured individuals are in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical treatment.

Qatar's Energy Minister, Saad bin Shreida Al-Kaabi , said the victims were of Indian and Pakistani origin. The country's Ministry of Interior reported that 66 people of various nationalities were injured in the blast.

In a statement, the Indian Embassy expressed solidarity with Qatar and conveyed condolences to the families of the victims. The mission said it remains in constant contact with local authorities and will extend all possible support to those affected.

Qatari emergency teams responded immediately, carrying out rescue and search operations before transferring the injured to nearby medical facilities. Authorities later confirmed that no gas leaks were detected following the incident and that there was no threat to public safety or the surrounding environment.

The tragedy has renewed attention on industrial safety standards and risk management practices in energy facilities across the Gulf region. Qatari authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the technical failure and establish the full circumstances surrounding the accident.