NEW DELHI: A devastating explosion at a gas processing facility in Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City has claimed the lives of 12 Indian nationals. The incident is being described as one of the deadliest accidents to strike the global gas industry in more than two decades.

The tragedy occurred on Sunday night within the sprawling industrial complex, a critical hub for Qatar's energy sector.

The Embassy of India in Doha confirmed the casualties after being notified by Qatari authorities. In a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), the embassy expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and assured that comprehensive support operations are underway.

Officials confirmed that while 12 lives were lost, those injured in the blast are currently in stable condition and receiving appropriate care.

"Our officials are working closely with Qatari authorities to provide all possible assistance to Indian nationals and their families, including facilitating the early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased," the embassy stated.

In New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed profound grief over the tragedy, extending his thoughts to the victims and their families.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and injuries, including of Indian nationals, in the explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City," Jaishankar posted on X. He reinforced that the Indian government, via its mission in Doha, is maintaining constant communication with Qatari officials to ensure the affected families receive immediate outreach and support.

According to Qatar’s Energy Minister, the blast originated deep within a vital gas processing facility inside the Ras Laffan complex.

While the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation, the sheer scale of the incident has sent shockwaves through the region. Ras Laffan is the heart of Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, making this one of the most serious industrial accidents the global energy sector has witnessed in recent memory.