Leaders discuss support for victims as India mourns loss of workers in Qatar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani following the deaths of 12 Indian nationals in a massive explosion at the Ras Laffan gas facility. The call came a day after Indian authorities confirmed the casualties in one of the deadliest industrial accidents involving Indian workers in Qatar in recent years. According to officials, the Emir expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the blast. Prime Minister Modi thanked the Qatari leadership for its support and for the assistance being provided to injured workers. The disaster happened at the Barzan gas supply plant in Ras Laffan Industrial City, which is the primary center for liquefied natural gas in Qatar. The explosion triggered a fire that left several workers dead and dozens injured.

The Indian Embassy in Doha confirmed that 12 of the dead were Indian nationals, despite Qatar reporting a total of 13 deaths in the incident. More than 60 people were injured, and several remain under treatment. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through communities in India where many families depend on relatives working in Gulf countries. As news of the accident spread, families waited anxiously for official confirmation and updates from authorities. Prime Minister Modi wished the bombing victims a quick recovery and stated that Qatar and India are united in their support of the impacted families in a statement released following the discussion. Officials familiar with the discussion said the two leaders also reviewed the broader situation in West Asia. Modi appreciated Qatar's efforts aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing tensions in the region.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the large Indian workforce in Qatar. Thousands of Indians are employed across the country's energy and infrastructure sectors, including facilities linked to natural gas production. Meanwhile, investigations into the cause of the explosion are continuing. A thorough investigation is anticipated in the upcoming days, although Qatari authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the explosion. For the families of the victims, however, the focus remains on bringing their loved ones home. Government agencies in both countries are coordinating efforts to assist relatives and complete necessary formalities following the tragedy.