New Delhi: 11 Indian nationals tragically died from carbon monoxide poisoning at a restaurant in Gudauri, a popular mountain resort in Georgia. The incident was confirmed by the Indian Mission in Tbilisi and Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, according to a PTI report.
Initial inspections revealed no signs of injuries or violence, with local police attributing the deaths to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a power generator. According to preliminary investigations, the generator had been placed in an enclosed area near the bedrooms on the second floor of the facility. It is believed the generator was switched on after a power outage on Friday night, December 13.
Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that while 11 of the victims were foreigners, another victim was a Georgian citizen.
The bodies were discovered in the bedrooms on the second floor of the restaurant, and forensic examinations are underway to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators have launched a probe under Article 116 of the Georgian Criminal Code, which deals with negligent manslaughter. Forensic experts and law enforcement are actively gathering evidence, and witnesses are being interviewed.
The Embassy of India in Tbilisi expressed condolences to the families of the victims in a press release issued on Monday, December 16.
“The Embassy of India in Tbilisi is saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of eleven Indian nationals in Gudauri Georgia and extends its deepest condolences to their families,” the statement read. It added that the embassy is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the repatriation of the victims’ mortal remains to India and is in contact with the bereaved families to provide support.
This article was originally published on The Wire on December 16, 2024.
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