Two Dead, Six Injured after Gas Line Explosion in Ismailia

A tragic industrial incident occurred Sunday evening at the valve complex of a gas pipeline in the Abu Sultan area of Ismailia Governorate, resulting in two fatalities and six injuries, according to an official statement by Egypt’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

The Ministry confirmed that at approximately 6:40 p.m., a loud explosion-like sound was reported at the site, prompting immediate dispatch of emergency response teams from the Suez Petroleum Zone. The accident occurred during routine maintenance preparations on the pipeline, which was scheduled for upcoming repair works.

Upon investigation, it was determined that the segment of the pipeline where the incident took place had already been completely purged of natural gas prior to the commencement of operations. The Ministry emphasized that there was no natural gas present in the line at the time of the incident, eliminating the possibility of a gas-related explosion.

Technical teams arriving on site found that the incident was caused by a detachment of the launcher trap from the pipeline at a welded joint. This mechanical failure led to a sudden release of pressure, resulting in the reported casualties.

The two deceased individuals and six injured workers were immediately transported to Fayed General Hospital, where the injured are currently receiving medical care. The Ministry expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and extended its wishes for a swift recovery to the injured.

Officials also confirmed that the incident has had no impact on national gas supplies, since the affected pipeline segment was offline and free of gas during the operation.

The Ministry of Petroleum has launched a full investigation into the causes of the accident and affirmed that all necessary legal and safety procedures are being followed. Authorities are also reviewing operational protocols to prevent such occurrences in future maintenance activities.