The recent incident at the massive oil refinery in Irbil, Iraq, has sparked shock and concern in the region. Eyewitness testimony by Fakhir Talib reveals a terrifying scene, where an initial explosion sparked a massive fire, leaving firefighters overwhelmed and unable to control the raging flames.
During the incident, at least ten firefighters were injured, three fire trucks were destroyed, and thick black smoke rose into the sky, plunging part of the city into darkness. Civil defense teams in the region were mobilized in large numbers, with more than 40 firefighter teams tirelessly battling the raging fire.
The cause of the incident was attributed to an electrical fault, ruling out any malicious intent. However, the consequences were devastating, with significant material and human losses. The refinery, which mainly produces gasoline, kerosene and white oil, is one of the main economic hubs in the region.
A refinery worker testified that about forty fuel tanks, each containing 18,000 liters, were affected by the flames. Half of them were burning, posing a serious danger to the environment and the safety of residents.
Despite the scale of the disaster, the unity and resilience of the rescue teams were highlighted. The municipality’s tanker trucks rushed to supply the fire trucks with water, demonstrating their determination to control the situation and protect citizens.
This tragic incident once again highlights the importance of industrial infrastructure safety and the need for rigorous preventive measures to avoid similar disasters in the future.
The people of Irbil and the region will rise from this ordeal, strengthening their solidarity and commitment to reconstruction and resilience in the face of adversity.