Chlorine gas leak at port in Jordan kills at least 13, injures hundreds
Washington PostSep 09, 2022
Jordan: Chlorine Gas Leak Kills 13, Injures Hundreds
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Image copyright: Jordanian Public Security [via CNN]
The Facts
On Mon., at least 13 people died and 251 were injured after chlorine gas leaked from a tank in Jordan's southern port city of Aqaba, according to officials.
Video footage released by the state media shows that a chlorine gas tank fell while being transported by crane onto a ship, exploding on impact, and filling the air with yellow toxic smoke.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
This was an accident waiting to happen as the management for the Aqaba port isn't committed to safe operations. Equipment is often used beyond its expected service life with poor maintenance, and various workers aren't qualified to serve in their roles.
Pro-establishment narrative
Jordan has already opened an investigation to highlight mistakes and to hold those responsible for this disaster accountable. Authorities have worked hard to mitigate damages and to reopen the Aqaba port, which is crucial to the national economy.
