New Delhi, 24 June (H.S.):

The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on Tuesday spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express his condolences over the deaths of 12 Indian nationals in the devastating explosion at the Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar.

The telephone conversation came two days after the blast at the Barzan local gas supply facility, part of the Ras Laffan Industrial City, on Sunday night. The facility is operated by QatarEnergy LNG and is one of the country's key energy installations.

According to official reports, 13 people lost their lives in the explosion, including 12 Indian nationals. The accident also left 66 people injured, several of them Indian workers employed at the facility.

In a message shared after the conversation, Prime Minister Modi thanked the Qatari Emir for personally conveying his condolences. He said both leaders shared the grief of the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident.

The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the strong partnership between India and Qatar, stating that both countries remain committed to ensuring the safety, security and well-being of their citizens and will continue to stand in solidarity during difficult times.

The Embassy of India in Doha, citing information provided by Qatari authorities, said all injured Indian nationals are in stable condition and are receiving appropriate medical treatment. Embassy officials remain in close contact with local authorities, hospitals and the affected families to provide all necessary assistance.

The explosion has prompted condolences from leaders and officials in both countries, while authorities continue to investigate the cause of the incident. Ras Laffan Industrial City is one of the world's largest liquefied natural gas production and export hubs and employs a significant number of expatriate workers, including many from India.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar