At least 41 people, including five Indians, were killed after a fire broke out in a building housing workers in Kuwait’s Mangaf city. The incident took place around 6 a.m. local time (around 9 a.m. IST).
The Kuwaiti health ministry stated that about 43 people were hospitalised due to the fire incident, and four of those individuals had died.
Five Keralites were among the dead in the fire, according to media reports. There were 195 labourers living in the building, including workers from Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Reports stated that a Malayali businessman KG Abraham owns the building, which belongs to the NBTC group.
In response to the tragedy, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, “Deeply shocked by the news of the fire incident in Kuwait city. There are reportedly over 40 deaths and over 50 have been hospitalized. Our Ambassador has gone to the camp. We are awaiting further information.”
A helpline number has been issued by the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, which has also said that it will provide all support necessary in light of the fire tragedy involving several Indian workers.
“Deepest condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. Wish early and full recovery to those who have been injured. Our Embassy will render the fullest assistance to all concerned in this regard,” he added.
The Indian Ambassador to Kuwait stated that over 30 Indian workers injured in the fire incident today are currently receiving medical attention.
The Ambassador met the patients and assured them that the Embassy would be assisting them.
A senior official said, “The building in which the fire occurred was used to house workers, and there were many workers there. Dozens were rescued, but unfortunately, there were many deaths as a result of inhaling smoke from the fire.”
“We always alert and warn against” cramming too many workers into housing accommodation, he said, without providing information on the employees’ type of employment or place of origin.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, which has been contained.
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