Gas Leak Triggers Mild Explosion at Sharjah Desalination Plant Construction Site

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates — A mild explosion caused by a suspected gas pipe leak occurred at a desalination plant construction site in Sharjah on Wednesday evening, injuring three workers — including a firefighter — and resulting in a partial collapse of steel scaffolding, authorities reported.

The incident took place at approximately 5:45 p.m. local time within the production wing of the under-construction facility. Emergency responders acted promptly, containing the subsequent fire and preventing any additional spread.

Fourteen workers were present in the affected section at the time of the blast. Two sustained first-degree burns to the torso, while a third worker suffered a minor burn to the arm. A firefighter involved in the initial response also sustained minor injuries. All injured individuals were transported to Al Qassimi Hospital. While most are in stable condition, one worker is reported to be in critical condition.

Investigators have traced the explosion to an area near a gas-powered industrial boiler, identifying a gas pipe leakage as the immediate trigger. The precise cause of the leak is still under active investigation. No external gas tanks were found in the vicinity, prompting specialists from the Arson Crimes Division and industrial safety experts to conduct a detailed forensic examination of the site.

Deputy Police Sergeant Abdulraheem Kamaldeen, who was on scene, expressed condolences to the injured workers and their families. He assured a comprehensive investigation would be carried out and highlighted the importance of maintaining strong workplace safety standards across the UAE’s industrial sector.

“It’s a modern desalination plant,” Sgt. Kamaldeen stated. “We must understand precisely what went wrong to prevent similar incidents in the future.”

The project manager Steven Bach, speaking with reporters at the site, confirmed that all standard safety protocols were being observed at the time. He refrained from speculating on the cause and noted that the project team would await the official findings from police and technical investigators.

More than 20 firefighters and specialized rescue teams responded to the scene. Nearby roads were temporarily closed to facilitate access for heavy equipment and emergency vehicles. Authorities confirmed the fire was fully extinguished shortly afterward.

While the incident has led to a full investigation and renewed discussions on safety protocols at construction sites, officials emphasized that it does not rank among the most serious industrial accidents in the country in recent years.

The investigation continues, with further updates anticipated as forensic analysis and witness statements are completed.