Safety measures
Iraq moves hazardous chemical containers away from ports after Iran’s Bandar Abbas blast
BASRA — Iraq’s Border Ports Authority announced Wednesday the formation of a technical committee to oversee the immediate relocation of hazardous chemical containers away from populated areas, following legal approval and in response to a deadly explosion at Iran’s Bandar Abbas port.
The decision follows the April 26 blast at Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas, which killed at least 70 people and injured more than 1,200, according to Iranian state media. The explosion is believed to have originated from shipping containers in the wharf area, some of which may have held hazardous chemicals.
In a statement, the Iraqi authority said the new measures aim to minimize risks by removing containers classified under international maritime hazardous materials codes from densely populated areas.
“In continuation of previous procedures, the Border Ports Authority is implementing urgent precautionary measures to inventory and evacuate containers containing hazardous materials,” the agency said.
During site inspections, the newly formed committee identified two containers that fall under the hazardous chemical category. It recommended continued evacuation of high-risk containers in incoming shipments, pending necessary legal and official approvals.
The committee also called for improved occupational safety resources at Iraqi ports and full compliance with environmental and customs regulations.
Containers deemed less hazardous will be transferred to designated storage yards.
