KARBALA, Iraq – More than 600 pilgrims were briefly hospitalised in the holy city of Karbala after a chlorine gas leak created panic during a period of heavy religious visitation. According to local health authorities, the incident occurred on Friday evening when chlorine gas accidentally escaped from a maintenance facility near a water purification station in the city.
Officials confirmed that the leak was contained swiftly, and the affected individuals were treated for symptoms including shortness of breath, coughing, and dizziness. Most of the patients were discharged after receiving primary care, with no fatalities reported. Health workers and emergency services acted promptly, transporting the victims to multiple hospitals across Karbala to prevent overcrowding and ensure immediate treatment.
The Iraqi Ministry of Health stated that the situation is now under control, with environmental teams working to ensure there are no lingering traces of the toxic gas in the affected areas. Preliminary investigations suggest that the leak resulted from a malfunction during maintenance work at the water station. Authorities are now probing the incident to determine whether negligence or technical failure was responsible.
Karbala, one of the most sacred cities for Shia Muslims, attracts millions of pilgrims each year, particularly during religious events such as Arbaeen. The timing of the leak has raised concerns about safety measures in place for large gatherings, especially given the high number of visitors currently in the city.
Residents and pilgrims have expressed relief that the gas leak did not result in severe casualties but have urged local authorities to enhance industrial safety protocols, particularly in areas near religious sites. Officials have assured the public that further safety inspections will be conducted across all water and industrial facilities in Karbala to prevent such incidents in the future.
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