Over 600 people were treated for suffocation after a chlorine gas leak struck the Iraqi city of Karbala on Sunday, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at a water treatment plant due to a technical malfunction, impacting Shiite pilgrims traveling for the annual Arbaeen ritual. 🌍🏥
What Happened?
Major Abbas al-Zaidi of Karbala police told media the leak happened early Sunday, with ambulances and emergency teams rushing to the scene. Most cases were mild to moderate, and all affected individuals received hospital care. The city, located 110 km south of Baghdad, is a key destination for religious pilgrims.
Arbaeen Pilgrimage Disrupted
The leak coincided with Arbaeen, one of the largest annual religious gatherings globally, marking the end of 40-day mourning for Imam Hussein. Thousands of pilgrims walk to Karbala for the event, which dates back to 680 AD. Many victims were among these travelers, adding strain to local resources. 🚶♂️🕊️
Safety Concerns Rise
While no fatalities were reported, the incident highlights infrastructure challenges in managing large-scale events. Chlorine, used widely in water treatment, can cause severe respiratory issues if leaked. Iraqi officials have not yet commented on long-term safety measures. 🔧⚠️
