Doha: At least 54 people were injured and 18 others remain missing after a powerful explosion ripped through a gas-related industrial facility in Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar, on Monday. Emergency teams continued search and rescue operations through the night as authorities worked to determine the cause of the blast.
The explosion occurred in one of the industrial units within Ras Laffan, one of the world's largest energy and liquefied natural gas (LNG) hubs. Witnesses reported hearing a massive blast followed by thick plumes of smoke rising from the facility. The impact was reportedly felt several kilometers away from the site.
Qatari authorities said emergency services, civil defense teams and medical personnel were immediately deployed. Injured workers were rushed to nearby hospitals, with several reported to be in critical condition. Officials confirmed that rescue teams are combing the affected area for 18 workers who remain unaccounted for.
The Ministry of Interior stated that the situation has been brought under control and that there is no immediate threat to surrounding industrial facilities. Authorities have also cordoned off the area to facilitate rescue efforts and allow investigators to examine the site.
While the exact cause of the explosion has not yet been confirmed, preliminary reports suggest it may have originated in a section linked to gas-processing operations. An official investigation has been launched, and technical experts are assessing structural damage and reviewing safety systems.
The blast has raised concerns across the global energy market because Ras Laffan is a critical center for Qatar's LNG production and export infrastructure. However, officials indicated that key export operations remain largely unaffected and that contingency measures have been activated to minimize disruptions.
Several countries, including India, have sought information about the welfare of their nationals working in the industrial zone. Diplomatic missions are coordinating with Qatari authorities to verify whether any foreign workers were among the injured or missing.
QatarEnergy and local authorities have pledged full support to affected workers and their families. Emergency response teams continue to work around the clock, with hopes of locating the missing workers as quickly as possible.
The incident marks one of the most serious industrial accidents in Qatar in recent years and is expected to trigger a comprehensive review of safety protocols across the country's energy sector. Rescue operations and the official investigation remain ongoing.
