Gas transport pipeline explodes in Kirkuk: NGC

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - A gas pipeline operated by the North Gas Company (NGC) exploded in the early hours of Saturday in Kirkuk due to a “technical malfunction,” the company said in a statement, adding that the resulting fire was later brought under control.

“The North Oil Company wishes to clarify to the public that the incident that occurred near the gas compression station (AB2) in the Bajwan area was due to a technical malfunction at 3:20 a.m., resulting from a gas leak in the metering system,” the state-run company said.

The blaze was contained after nearly two hours, according to the statement.

“The incident was handled in accordance with approved emergency plans, and safety and firefighting teams were able to fully control the fire in record time, without any casualties,” it added.

The explosion occurred near the village of Bawaji, Rudaw correspondent Hardi Mohammed reported from the scene, citing relevant authorities who confirmed that no injuries or fatalities were recorded.

The company did not provide an estimate of the material damage caused by the incident but said efforts are underway to restore the pipeline to operation.

“The company assures the public that the situation is completely under control and that all facilities are operating in accordance with approved industrial safety procedures,” the statement said.