Taiz — A large fuel derivatives tank exploded on Sunday during maintenance operations at a workshop located in the busy Sinan Roundabout area in central Taiz. The blast sent shockwaves through the surrounding neighborhood, triggering panic among residents and shopkeepers.

According to preliminary reports from local authorities, the explosion occurred while technicians were conducting routine repairs on the tank. The incident caused significant material damage to the workshop and nearby properties, but no human casualties have been reported.

Eyewitnesses described a loud blast followed by plumes of smoke rising from the site. Civil defense teams and firefighters quickly arrived at the scene to contain the situation and prevent further hazards, especially given the flammable nature of the materials involved.

Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and assess whether safety protocols were followed during the maintenance process.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about industrial safety standards in densely populated urban areas, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Taiz, where infrastructure oversight remains limited.

Authorities have urged workshops and fuel storage facilities to adhere strictly to safety regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.