Factory blast in Qatar injures 54, 18 still missing

DOHA: An explosion at an industrial facility in Qatar’s Ras Laffan industrial zone has left at least 54 people injured and 18 others missing, according to the Gulf state’s interior ministry.

Officials described the incident as a “technical incident” and later referred to it as an “internal explosion” caused by a suspected technical malfunction. The blast occurred on Sunday during the start-up of operations at a facility within Ras Laffan Industrial City, which is home to the world’s largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) hub.

State-owned QatarEnergy confirmed that the explosion took place at the Barzan local gas supply facility, adding that emergency teams were immediately deployed to control the fire and secure the site. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities continue searching for the missing individuals.

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A statement released on social media by the interior ministry said that a total of 54 people were injured in the incident and that emergency responders were working to locate 18 people still unaccounted for. Officials have not yet disclosed the nationalities of those affected or the severity of the injuries.

An AFP journalist located approximately 20 kilometres from the site reported seeing flames lighting up the night sky along with a large plume of smoke rising from the industrial area. The Ras Laffan complex is a critical energy hub and plays a key role in global LNG exports.

Qatar, one of the world’s leading LNG producers alongside the United States, Australia, and Russia, has faced increased scrutiny over the safety and security of its energy infrastructure in recent years.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion and have assured that safety protocols are being reviewed. Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue.