China’s Qingdao oil pipeline explosion leaves 44 deadNovember 23, 2013 - 16:31 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - At least 44 people in China have been killed in an explosion after a leaking oil pipeline caught fire in the city of Qingdao, state media has reported, according to BBC News. Chinese officials said workers were trying to repair the pipeline at the time of Friday, November 22 blast. Pictures of the scene showed shattered concrete slabs and black smoke rising. More than 100 firefighters were involved in putting out the fire. The pipeline is owned by Sinopec, China's largest oil refiner. The leak was spotted early on Friday and the explosion happened several hours later, the Qingdao government said on its official microblog. The authorities have ruled out terrorism but say the incident remains under investigation. Correspondents say that the blast ripped roads apart, turned cars over and sent thick black smoke billowing over the eastern coastal city. Reports say that the number of dead could rise - at least 136 people were injured. Because the scene of Friday morning's explosion was close to the coast, barriers were been erected to stop oil leaking into the sea, reports said. Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |