India is working closely with Qatari authorities to identify and repatriate the mortal remains of 12 Indian nationals killed in the Ras Laffan Industrial City explosion…reports Asian Lite News Desk
India is coordinating with Qatari authorities to identify and repatriate the mortal remains of the 12 Indian nationals who lost their lives in the explosion at Ras Laffan Industrial City earlier this week, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday.
Addressing the weekly media briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the incident as a tragic accident and said the government was in constant touch with local authorities and the families of those affected.
“Very unfortunate death of 12 Indian nationals. Several others also died of other nationalities, but we lost 12 of our nationals in the tragedy in the Ras Laffan gas field, where an explosion happened,” Jaiswal said.
He noted that around 66 people of various nationalities were injured in the blast, although the exact number of injured Indian nationals has not yet been confirmed.
“Several other people have also been injured. I am told that some 66 people are injured across nationalities. We do not know exactly how many of them are Indian nationals, but all those people who are injured are safe,” he added.
Jaiswal said Indian authorities were working with their Qatari counterparts to complete identification procedures and facilitate the return of the victims’ remains to India at the earliest.
“We are talking to the local authorities for the identification of the mortal remains, as well as for the transportation of the mortal remains to India. We are also in touch with the family members of those who died in this very unfortunate accident,” he stated.
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed grief over the deaths and injuries caused by the explosion and assured support to affected families.
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and injuries, including of Indian nationals, in the explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City. As further details emerge, our Embassy continues to be in touch with Qatari authorities, and is reaching out to render assistance to the families of Indian nationals affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families,” Jaishankar posted on X.
The Embassy of India in Doha confirmed on Monday that 12 Indian nationals were among those killed in the incident.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. Qatari authorities have also confirmed that all those who got injured in the incident are in stable condition and are receiving appropriate medical treatment,” the embassy said in a statement.
The mission added that it was working closely with Qatari authorities to provide all possible assistance to affected Indian nationals and their families, including ensuring the early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased.
The explosion occurred at Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City on Sunday night, with local authorities continuing investigations into the cause of the incident.
