The capital of Lebanon, Beirut, recently witnessed a massive explosion that claimed the lives of over a hundred people and injured more than 4,000, according to initial reports.
Details about the Blast
Two consecutive explosions took place in Beirut’s central port area within minutes of each other. The impact was so powerful that it affected residents living as far as 10 kilometers from the site, with shockwaves felt up to 250 kilometers away. The blasts created seismic waves equivalent to a magnitude 3.3 earthquake and were likely triggered by over 2,700 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that had been stored at the port for over six years.
Consequences of the Explosion
In response to the tragic incident, a two-week state of emergency has been imposed in Beirut.
Economic Impact
Lebanon is heavily dependent on imports, and with its largest maritime gateway severely damaged, essential items may become expensive, threatening the country’s food security. Lebanon had already been wrestling with an economic meltdown, rising inflation due to rapid devaluation of the local currency, business closures, unemployment, and poverty. The nation also defaulted on a Eurobond repayment in March 2020 and is currently negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a $10 billion loan program. The blast has added the financial burden of rebuilding the city to these existing issues.
Political Implications
Political unrest could resurge in Lebanon, which saw nationwide protests against corruption, economic mismanagement, and sectarian politics in October 2019, leading to the resignation of then-Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Together with the ongoing economic crisis, this blast could spark social unrest once again.
Impact on Health Sector
Lebanon’s health system, already strained by the Covid-19 pandemic, faces additional pressure from treating victims of the blast.
International Response
Help has been extended to Lebanon by various countries such as the USA, Germany, France, Iran, EU, and Turkey. France’s President Emmanuel Macron not only offered aid but also decided to visit Lebanon, signaling fraternity and solidarity. Meanwhile, Israel, despite its tumultuous relationship with Lebanon, has offered humanitarian aid.
About Ammonium Nitrate
Ammonium Nitrate (NH4NO3) is a white, crystalline, nitrogen-rich chemical that is soluble in water. It is commonly used in agricultural fertilisers and commercial explosives. To be explosive, it requires a primary explosive or detonator like RDX or TNT. Many Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) use ANFO, an explosive composition of ammonium nitrate fuel oil, as their main explosive.
Past Incidents Involving Ammonium Nitrate
Ammonium nitrate has been used in numerous terror attacks around the world, including in Pulwama, Varanasi, Malegaon, Pune, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Accidental explosions have also occurred, causing large numbers of fatalities, such as in China in 2015 and Texas in 1947.
Regulations about Ammonium Nitrate
Internationally, ammonium nitrate is classified as an oxidising content (Grade 5.1) under the United Nations classification of dangerous goods. In India, any activity related to ammonium nitrate is covered under The Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012, and storage of ammonium nitrate in large quantities in populated areas is illegal.
Overview of Lebanon
Lebanon, located in Western Asia, is bordered by Syria, Israel, and the Mediterranean Sea. It remained under Ottoman rule for four centuries before coming under French control following World War I. Lebanon gained independence in 1943. The country harbors a confessionalist parliamentary democracy.
Way Forward
Lebanon faces mounting challenges from financial crises, political turbulence, and the Covid-19 pandemic. The recent tragedy emphasizes the need for international solidarity and assistance for the beleaguered nation.