Türkiye oil site explosion leaves seven injured, two fighting for life

A powerful explosion at an oil drilling site operated by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) has left seven workers injured, two of them critically, local authorities stated.

The blast occurred at the Üçtepe-1 oil well, situated along the Diyarbakır–Batman highway in southeastern Türkiye, an area known for its petroleum reserves, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.

The explosion, which sent shockwaves through the surrounding region, ignited a fire that rapidly spread through part of the facility.

Emergency response teams—including firefighters, medical personnel, and gendarmerie units—were immediately dispatched to the scene. Firefighters managed to contain the blaze before it could spread further, while paramedics administered first aid to the injured workers at the site. All seven were subsequently transported to hospitals in Diyarbakır for further medical treatment.

Health officials later confirmed that two of the injured are in critical condition due to the extent of their burns and trauma sustained during the incident.

The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the underlying factors. Investigators from multiple agencies are expected to inspect the scene throughout the day on July 25.

As of July 25 morning, TPAO had not released an official statement regarding the incident. However, local officials have reassured the public that all safety protocols have been activated and that the site has been secured to prevent any secondary risks.

The Üçtepe-1 well is part of a broader oil exploration initiative in southeastern Türkiye, where TPAO has been expanding drilling operations in an effort to bolster the country’s domestic energy production.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

By Vafa Guliyeva