More than 621 people required medical treatment following a chlorine gas leak at a water treatment plant in Iraq's holy city of Karbala, authorities confirmed Sunday. The incident occurred as Shiite pilgrims gathered for the annual Arbaeen commemoration, one of the world's largest religious gatherings.
Major Abbas al-Zaidi of the Karbala police told media that a technical malfunction at the facility caused the leak early Sunday morning. Civil defense teams and ambulances swiftly transported affected individuals – mostly pilgrims traveling on foot – to local hospitals. Most cases were reported as mild to moderate, with no fatalities confirmed.
The timing proved particularly sensitive as Karbala prepares to host millions for Arbaeen, marking the end of the 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussein, a revered figure in Shia Islam. The city lies 110 kilometers southwest of Baghdad and sees massive annual pilgrimages despite recent regional security challenges.
While authorities have contained the leak, the incident raises questions about infrastructure maintenance during high-volume religious events. Health officials confirmed all patients received immediate care, with many already discharged.
