Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Burning since 1971, the “Gates of Hell” gas crater in Turkmenistan remains a fiery marvel, formed after a Soviet drilling accident ignited the methane-rich natural gas beneath.
The Darvaza gas crater emerged when a drilling rig hit a gas reservoir, collapsing the ground and releasing vast amounts of methane. Igniting the gas was meant to last weeks, but the flames persist decades later.
The continuous release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has raised environmental concerns. President Berdymukhamedov has ordered experts to find a solution to extinguish the fire.
The glowing crater has become a top landmark, attracting thousands of tourists annually. Its bright, fiery glow is visible for miles in the desert, making it a spectacle by night.
Gas emissions from the crater pose risks to nearby residents, raising health and environmental alarms. Shutting the crater has become a national priority for Turkmenistan.
In 2019, President Berdymukhamedov added to the site’s allure by performing rally car tricks near the crater’s rim, further cementing its cultural significance.
Stopping the fire is a monumental task. Experts suggest capping the gas leak, but the lack of advanced technical resources complicates the operation.
The Gates of Hell is both a scientific failure and a cultural icon. The debate rages on whether to preserve it as a landmark or extinguish it for environmental reasons.
As efforts continue, the fate of this blazing wonder remains uncertain. Will it become a closed chapter in scientific history or continue burning as a symbol of nature’s unpredictability?