Gas pipeline explodes in Syria, knocks three power plants offline

What the report says

A gas pipeline explosion in Syria has taken three power plants offline and triggered a major fire, according to the state-run SANA news agency and the Syrian Electricity Company. Al Jazeera reported that the blast occurred in Eastern Ghouta, in the Damascus countryside, and affected the Deir Ali, al-Nasiriyah and Tishreen plants because of reduced gas supply.

Authorities had not identified the cause of the explosion as of publication, and specialised teams were working to address the disruption. The Electricity Company said the shutdowns would likely increase power rationing hours as the country’s electricity supply remains strained.

The incident comes after two earlier explosions hit Syria’s gas network in the previous six weeks, which the Syrian Petroleum Company said were the result of sabotage. No group has claimed responsibility for any of the blasts. The latest disruption is likely to add pressure on households already facing higher energy costs and shortages.

Al Jazeera’s reporting also placed the incident against a broader backdrop of economic stress and public frustration over recent fuel price increases, which have prompted protests in parts of the country. While the exact cause remains unclear, the blast underscores the vulnerability of Syria’s energy infrastructure after years of war and damage.