Tehran (TDI): A major explosion rocked the Shahid Rajaee Port in the southern Iranian city of Bandar Abbas early Saturday morning, injuring at least 500 people, according to state media reports.
The blast, which authorities believe was triggered by the ignition of flammable materials stored in open containers on the wharf, resulted in extensive damage to nearby office buildings, shattering windows and causing the collapse of at least one structure.
While no fatalities have been officially confirmed, distressing footage from the scene showed numerous individuals lying wounded on the streets, with reports of several people trapped under collapsed debris.
A massive fire continues to rage at the site, with thick black smoke engulfing the area and visible from kilometers away. Emergency services have been working tirelessly to evacuate the injured and transfer them to nearby hospitals.
Crisis management officials have confirmed that rescue operations are underway to free workers trapped under damaged roofs and structures.
“The fire spread quickly and caused a catastrophic explosion,” an eyewitness told local media, adding that a small initial fire rapidly engulfed containers suspected to be storing chemical materials. Authorities have stated that the source of the incident was the explosion of several containers stored at the port’s wharf area.
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The intensity of the blast caused widespread panic, with motorists seen fleeing the port area amidst heavy traffic, many with vehicles damaged by the force of the explosion. Residents living several kilometers away reported hearing the powerful blast and feeling its tremors.
In the immediate aftermath, emergency response teams, including firefighters, medical personnel, and crisis management units, have been deployed in large numbers to contain the situation and provide critical support to those affected.
Officials have urged residents to avoid the vicinity of the port as efforts to control the fire and rescue trapped individuals continue.
An investigation into the cause of the fire and subsequent explosion has been launched. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
The Iranian government has expressed its deep concern over the incident and pledged all necessary resources to assist the injured and rebuild affected facilities. Prayers and support have been pouring in for the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
